Sandwell Council and its waste partner Serco have teamed up with pupils from Temple Meadow Primary School, to launch a new initiative aimed at reducing the amount of dog mess left near their school.
The project, which encourages responsible pet ownership, was developed after students raised concerns about the ongoing issue of dog fouling on their walk to school.
The children have been reminding dog owners to clean up after their pets and have sent out communications to local parents. The council has also increased signage and patrols in the area and is encouraging the community to report repeat offenders.
Councillor Keith Allcock, Cabinet Member for Environment and Highways at Sandwell Council said: “We are delighted to support the students at Temple Meadow Primary School in tackling this issue. Dog fouling is not only unpleasant but also a health hazard, especially for children. By working with young people, we hope to raise awareness and encourage more responsible behaviour among dog owners.
Pupils from Temple Meadow have taken an active role in the project, sharing their experiences and ideas to help drive change.
The students, who are in year 6 said, “We love our community, but it’s frustrating when people don’t pick up after their dogs. We hope increases in signage and patrols will make a difference and remind people to be responsible.”
The council is urging all dog owners to do their part by always carrying waste bags and disposing of dog mess in the appropriate bins. Offenders could face fines of £100 if caught failing to clean up after their pets.
Go online or call 0121 368 1177 to report dog mess and any information to help the council identity people not cleaning up after their dog.