Onchan District Commissioners have launched a crackdown on dog fouling after a number of complaints from residents regarding the state of some footpaths and open spaces in the district. Commissioners Lead Member for Properties and Amenities , Kathryn Williams, asked for markers to be placed to illustrate the level of the problem in some areas. She said:
“The amount of mess on paths and pavements around and on the way to schools is really concerning. School children and people with buggies don’t always see the problem until it’s too late, and they’re left to clean shoes or pram wheels before they go into the house. Sometimes children won’t even notice until they’re in the house and the mess has been trodden into the carpet.”
Commissioners Chairman Rob Callister stated;
“It’s a shame that a few inconsiderate owners who don’t clean up after their pet give all dog walkers a bad name. There has been a marked increase in dog fouling of pavements and play areas over the winter, and unless those in charge of these animals when they are being exercised accept their responsibilities, the Commissioners will look at banning dogs from all of their open spaces.”
Commissioner’s Chief Executive, Malcolm Hulme, said
“We have nothing against responsible dog owners, but our Community Officer and Parks Staff have been tasked with tackling those who spoil our play areas and pathways. We will prosecute where evidence supports a reasonable chance of conviction, and would ask the public to help us, both in cleaning up after their pets and reporting those who don’t.”
The photograph depicts Lead Member for Properties and Amenities, Commissioner Kathryn Williams beside markers showing uncleared dog faeces on Ballachrink Drive in Onchan.