RSS Press releases
We publish all of our recent press releases online so you can keep up to date.
You can use special RSS software (or newer web browsers) to subscribe to an RSS feed of our recent press releases . Email pressenquiry@dumgal.gov.uk if you'd like further details on any of our press releases.
If you want to speak to a communications officer, you can find their working-hours telephone numbers and what areas of the council they cover at www.dumgal.gov.uk/pressenquiry.
Read our press releases as HTML >>
Recent releases
Community Safety Officers were out in strength in the Stewartry last week, giving out free dog waste bags and advice to try and prevent dog fouling, which blights streets, pavements, and open spaces.
The 3-day campaign in Castle Douglas, Kirkcudbright and Dalbeattie was well received by the local community. Dog owners took away handfuls of bags and copies of the Dog Fouling Act 2003.
They also provided the Community Safety Team with valuable information regarding dog fouling hotspots and information on those who may be responsible for failing to pick up when their dog has fouled.
The Dog Fouling Act 2003 states that it is an offence to fail to immediately clean up and properly dispose of your dog waste after your dog has fouled in a public area without a reasonable excuse. The Fixed Penalty Notice is £40 and non-payment could lead to a fine up to £500.
Diane McColm, Senior Community Safety Officer said; “We’ve been out and about broadcasting the message that dog fouling will not be accepted in the Stewartry. Anyone caught will be given a £40 Fixed Penalty Notice.”
Caroline Askew, Community Safety Officer said; “Dog fouling, as well as being a blot in our communities, can carry many diseases.”
Andrea Middleton, from the animal welfare charity SSPCA (Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) accompanied the Community Safety Team on a couple of days, giving further valuable advice.
As well as dog fouling, the team gave out valuable advice on other duties in their remit. One item that surprised the team was that many people don’t realise that a cigarette end is classed as litter and could lead to a Fixed Penalty Notice of £50.
Dog fouling display in Castle Douglas
