No nonsense over dog fouling

12:37pm Monday 12th March 2001

DOG owners face being hauled before the courts if they allow their pets to foul Lewisham's streets and parks.

Fixed penalties have been ditched in favour of no-nonsense prosecutions as the borough's environmental officers get tough on thoughtless owners.

The move, which could result in £1,000 fines for successful cases, comes after an increase in reported dog fouling. Last April there were 18 reported complaints, compared to 87 in January. Three council prosecutions against people who failed to clean up after their pets are pending.

The Downham area has been singled out as a problem spot, along with Culverley Green in Catford and Grove Park.

The public is being asked to play a part in the clampdown by passing on information and descriptions if they catch animals in the act.

Teams of council officers already patrol the streets looking for culprits but are appealing for extra pairs of eyes. They will no longer be issuing the £25 fixed penalty notices. Instead, if caught, culprits will be given a summons.

Successful prosecutions rely on witnesses being able to give descriptions of dogs and their owners, times and locations of fouling.

The council wants to promote its “bag it and bin it message”.

Environment deputy Councillor Paul Fallon said: “The council has run out of patience with irresponsible dog owners. We are not prepared to allow these people to spoil our local environment by not cleaning up after their animals. Anyone caught allowing their dogs to foul pavements, streets or parks from now on will be prosecuted.”

People with details of fouling can call 020 8314 7171.

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