If there’s something foul in the neighbourhood, who you gonna call?

Published by Riverside for Riverside in Housing and also in Environment

Riverside has launched a new weapon in the war against dog dirt on the North Bransholme estate in Hull.

Environment officers are taking to the streets with a portable vacuum pooper scooper  in response to a survey in which residents identified dog fouling as the most important issue to them.

The vacuum sucks up the dog mess then the North Bransholme Sports Forum team who provide environmental services on behalf of Riverside, will spray a disinfectant to sterilise the pavement. The team will also be using stencils and chalk spray to mark and map the mess. They will then pass this intelligence to the council’s enforcement team who can use it to identify hotspots and target the culprits.

The new equipment is part of a Riverside campaign highlighting the dangers of dog fouling and encouraging dog owners to be more responsible.

Volunteers from URBAN (United Residents of Bransholme Area North) have also been handing out free dog waste bags.

Riverside’s Neighbourhood Services Team Leader Louise Sansam said: “We recognise that most dog owners are responsible and clean up after their pets, but unfortunately there is a small minority who turn a blind eye.

“Dog fouling is the most offensive type of litter on our streets and an issue which causes real concern among our tenants and residents. Dog fouling is not only unpleasant, it is dangerous. For that reason we are committed to tacking the issue.”

Cllr Anita Harrison added: “We will not tolerate dog fouling. We aim to send a clear message that dog owners who do not clean up need to take responsibility for their animals and anyone caught failing to clear up after their pet will be fined.

“However, this campaign is about more than just enforcement. We hope to educate about the dangers of dog fouling and remind them that cleaning up after their pet is simple. We are also encouraging residents to supply us with information on offenders.”

Information can be provided to the Environmental Crime Unit, part of the Council’s Citysafe service:

• Call 01482 300 300

• Text phone: 01482 300 349
• Email at: enviro.crime@hullcc.gov.uk