Dog fouling in Llandudno Junction on the increase

Dec 2 2010 by Mari Jones, North Wales Weekly News

POLICE and councillors have condemned the increase of dog fouling in Llandudno Junction.

Dog fouling has become an increasing problem in the area of Cae Derw Playing Field.

Police community support officer Peter Colley said enough is enough.

He said: “The problem is getting worse and it’s because an area which was popular with dog walkers has been fenced off by a developer.

“Residents have recently complained to both the police and Conwy County Council of the increase in dog fouling.

“They’ve also said many inconsiderate dog owners have allowed their dogs to foul and have failed to clean up after them.

“The local neighbourhood policing team and community safety and enforcement team are aiming to launch a Dogwatch scheme in the vicinity of Cae Derw.”

This means dog wardens from Conwy County Council will be patrolling the area and talking with dog owners.

PCSO Colley explained: “We will be informing them of the dangers of toxocara canis, which is a disease transported to the eye via the retinal artery potentially causing blindness through the growth of non-malignant tumours of the development of detached retinas.

“It can cause vomiting, diarrhoea and other infections.

“We will also be encouraging responsible dog owners and other members of the public to keep their eye out for irresponsible dog owners and those who do not have correct control of their dogs.

“They can report those who do not clean up after their dogs to the enforcement team on 01745 588932 or me on 07970 810556.”

The fine for failing to clean up after your dog is a £75 fixed penalty. This can be issued by a dog warden, a PCSO or a council employee suitably empowered.

The area will be patrolled frequently by officers who operate a zero tolerance policy.

Llandudno Junction councillor Meirion Hughes commented: “I have been pressing for action in relation to the increase in dog fouling at Cae Derw for several months.

“I am delighted our local policing team is taking this initiative and fully support them.

“Just for clarity and to reinforce the information provided by Peter, up until recently many dog walkers used the nearby Albini House site which has planning consent for housing development.

“The field is a park for children’s play, community recreation and junior football.”