Councillors in Broughty Ferry are taking a stand against people who don’t clean up after their pets.
Dundee City Council has launched a campaign which will initially target Broughty Ferry in areas like the beach and Esplanade, which will see dog owners making a costly mistake if caught not cleaning up after their pooch.
New plans are in place for £40 on-the-spot fines to be issued, which will increase to £60 if they are not paid in 28 days.
The scheme could also see offenders taken to court if they do not pay the fine in a designated amount of time. Fines will be issued by enforcers who patrol the beach.
The council is also urging the people of Broughty Ferry to help the efforts by reporting information about dog fouling to a new phone line and email address.
The focus on dog fouling follows a pilot scheme in the area, which saw 42 fines issued earlier this year.
The scheme will be spread through other parts of Dundee soon.
Environment convener Councillor Craig Melville attended the beach event to back the campaign, and reaffirm the council’s position on fouling.
He said: “We take dog fouling very seriously. I am sure everyone will agree that the council should use every power at its disposal to make sure that those who spoil the environment pay the price for their selfishness.
“We understand that the beach is an important part of Dundee and Broughty Ferry, not just for the people who live here but for tourists too.”
Mr Melville also emphasised that he does not blame every Dundee dog owner for the issue, but does take a hard stance.
He said: “We need to be proactive in dealing with the problems in Broughty Ferry. This is a tourist location and we need to deal with people who are acting irresponsible and lazy.
“We have had people tell us the beach is a problem area, particularly the grass-covered parts, so it’s important to start with the beach before we roll it out in other places.
“The vast majority of dog owners in Dundee are responsible and I would like to thank them for their help in keeping the city clean.”
Mr Melville was also joined by the depute environment convener Councillor Vari McDonald who further supported the steps towards a cleaner beach.
She said: “We want people to enjoy a cleaner and safer seaside.
“We know the public have issues with dog owners leaving their mess behind and we thought this would be the best place to start.”
People with information on dog fouling should call 436285 or email environment@dundeecity.gov.uk.