A COUNCIL is waging war on dog dirt.

A series of no-fouling zones is to be created in Blackburn and Darwen with the aim of forcing dog owners to clean up after their pets.

Blackburn with Darwen Council will launch a high-profile publicity and education campaign to remind all dog owners of their responsibilities.

Coun Mike Barrett, chairman of the council's environment services sub-committee, said: "The council does not in any way wish to discourage dog ownership.

"But by cleaning up their own dogs' waste, owners will not only be helping to reduce the risk to public health but will also play their part in maintaining urban, leisure and rural environments for everyone to enjoy." The present law on dog fouling is difficult to enforce because grassed areas are not included and council officers must actually witness the fouling.

New legislation will make it easier for the council to crack down on offenders and encourage people to control their pets.

The campaign will be launched in March when leaflets and information will be available to dog owners.

But for the first three months owners will receive informal warnings and advice when an offence is committed.

Coun Barrett said: "We want to be fair to dog owners and give the a reasonable period of time to understand the new situation.

"This gives us a chance to have a proper campaign and ensure that everyone receives all the information they need."

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