Ridding the streets of foul play

The Clean Glasgow campaign – launched in a bid to rid the streets of dog mess – has issued 637 fixed penalty notices in 12 months.

Enforcement officers from Glasgow Community and Safety Services have been tackling the city area by area, and figures show that the scheme has prompted a 68 per cent increase in calls to the Clean Glasgow identifying problem areas – or culprits.

CCTV footage has also been used to identify people failing to clean up after their pets, prompting a further 11.590 warning letters sent out to streets and closes where suspects live.

Gordon Matheson, Glasgow city council leader, said: “The initial part of the campaign was as much about education as enforcement.

“By telling people we were coming to their neighbourhood, we aimed to change habits by making it clear that irresponsible behaviour was unacceptable and would not be tolerated.

“We are extremely pleased with the initial results and thrilled by the huge level of support from the general public who have been phoning in to report those flouting the law.

“However, anyone who thought they could revert to their filthy ways when we left the area can now think again. The crackdown continues and no one can afford to risk receiving a fine”.

Those caught leaving dog mess can face a £40 fine – rising to £60 if unpaid within 28 days.

Meanwhile, the Clean Glasgow team continue to visit areas at random – this time unannounced.

Anyone with concerns about dog fouling or dog owners in the community can contact the team on 0800 027 7027.

Have you noticed cleaner southside streets, or is dog fouling an ongoing problem? Share your thoughts for this week’s paper by emailing Gillian (address linked above) or by visiting Facebook or Twitter no later than Wednesday lunchtime.