Valley Park declares war on dog’s mess

RESIDENTS who allow their dogs to foul on Rye’s Valley Park estate could be hit with fines.

Developers Aroncorp Ltd were responding to concerns, raised by a Rye councillor that dog’s mess could create a public health hazard.

They say they will take action against residents on the privately owned estate who do not clear up after their dog.

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Cllr Mary Smith said: “There is a real concern over public health as there are a lot of young children on the site.”

There have been calls for dog waste bins to be introduced to Valley Park, but Aroncorp managing director Gavin Thomas says there are problems with this.

Addressing a recent meeting of Rye Town Council, he said: “We have no plans to introduce dog waste bins at the moment. Because Valley Park is privately owned residents pay a service charge for facilities and there is resistance to the idea from residents who are not dog owners.

“There is also the issue as to whose responsibility it would be to maintain and empty the bins.

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“Maintenance contractors have been tasked to remove dog waste from footpaths on the estate.

“Leaflets are being sent out to residents of Valley Park and residents in the surrounding area at Tilling Green and Old Brickyard, reminding people to remove waste.

He added; “We have been offered support from the RDC Compliance Officer and the Police and we shall be monitoring dog walkers on the park far more closely, from now on.

“We are trying to identify residents who don’t clear up after their dogs and they will be issued with an £85 fine.”

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Deputy Mayor Bernardine Fiddimore said: “I am happy with the way it is being dealt with. Taking action like this will be far more effective in soling the problem.

“It is not right that Valley Park residents who do not own dogs should have to fund dog waste bins.”

A leaflet, distributed by Aroncorp, states: “Please keep your dog on a lead whilst you are Valley Park and if your dog fouls the property, including the footpath, please could you remove the waste as a courtesy to others.”

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