Council paints dog mess to make a point

Last week the council took to spraying dog mess with biodegradable paint to make highly visible the problem areas and help pedestrians avoid stepping in it.

Wardens will follow up by patrolling these areas and issuing £80 fines to anyone caught not picking up after their dogs.

The council was pleased with the overall feedback to the scheme which they publicised on social media, although some voiced concern.

Karen McKelvey said: “Rate payers money wasted again, paying someone to paint dog poo with biodegradable paint - it may be more visible but it’s still there. I understand the problem, but painting it! It’s not a campaign that will make the lazy owners pick up”.

A council response said: “This is part of an awareness campaign, the dog fouling will be cleaned up and wardens will be patrolling the area”.

Joanna Lambe said: “Anything that highlights this is a good idea”.

Megan Branagan said: “The road from St Teresa’s Chapel up to Bridge Primary School is a disgrace with dog poo! Something more needs to be done especially as kids be walking that road!”

Noleen Magill said: “You really need to do the walk down Peggy’s Loaning from Edenderry till The Huntley Road,” and Sam Ransom said: “The whole of the Newry Road, Banbridge - it’s horrible and I hate having to tell my son he can’t go on the grass and to watch where he’s walking, as well as trying to avoid dog poo when pushing the pram”.

Valerie Wilson said: “Really annoys me walking my kids to school in Dromore... Disgusting,” and Deirdre Rice said: “Could do with that on Gallows Street, Dromore”.

Amanda McClimond Johnston said: “Oh my goodness, this is needed in Rathfriland!”

Thanking people for their comments the council said: “The areas you have highlighted have been forwarded to the wardens and street cleansing for action. We are encouraged by your support”.