New measures are being introduced by Newark and Sherwood District Council as part of a campaign to tackle dog fouling and full bins in identified hotspot areas.
Balderton was highlighted through the council’s monitoring system as one of the locations where additional action was needed around the number of dog fouling incidents being reported to both the Council and Balderton Parish Council.
In response, the number of bins in the area was reviewed, seven new post-mounted bins were installed, and new stickers and signage created in partnership with Keep Britain Tidy have been placed on general waste bins and lampposts to remind residents about cleaning up after their dog.
The partnership with Balderton Parish Council has been particularly effective with collaborative efforts helping to engage residents and spread positive messaging through their social media and newsletters. Before rolling out to other locations, this campaign will allow the District Council to see what has been most effective and what can be improved for ahead of the next area.
Councillor Paul Taylor, Portfolio Holder for Public Protection and Community Relations at Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “Whether it’s dog waste being left on pavements or household rubbish overfilling our public bins, there are a number of challenges we are facing to help keep our environment clean and tidy. We are always exploring new ways to reduce littering, dog fouling and overfilled bins in our communities. This campaign gives us the chance to focus on a known hotspot and assess the impact that additional bins and signage can make before rolling out elsewhere. We pride ourselves on our amazing green and clean spaces and we want residents to continue to enjoy them. A reminder that fines for dog fouling can raise to a maximum of £1,000!”
An increase in reporting may indicate that more residents are engaging with the campaign and contacting the Council to request removal rather than directly contacting the parish. This feedback will help shape future action plans for other hotspot areas across the district.
A key part of the campaign has also involved working with local businesses. The District Council will be asking vets and pet shops located in the area if they would display the new signage and this approach will be extended to businesses in other locations with notable dog fouling reports outside of their premises, showing that partnership in tackling these issues is key.
Additional stickers are also being trialled in Balderton, Farndon and Fernwood to remind residents that household waste and dog waste from home should be disposed of at home, not in public bins – this is to avoid public bins from overflowing.
To report dog fouling or an overflowing bin, you can do so on the District Council website, here: www.newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk/report