Great Coates becomes first Poo Bag Partner Village Council

With 12 partners across the borough including businesses, organisations and charities, the scheme is proving popular amongst residents.

The initiative hopes to ensure everyone has the means to pick up after their dog wherever they are in the borough. By becoming a Poo Bag Partner, organisations receive a donation of poo bags which can be given out to dog owners should they require them whilst out walking.

Between September 2023 and August 2024, 284 Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) were issued for dog fouling related offences. The Council oversees the rules and regulations around dogs through the use of a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO).

This ensures pet owners are held responsible should they act irresponsibly. Speaking about the initiative, Chair of Great Coates Village Council, Councillor Karl Green, said: “Great Coates Village Council are delighted to be partnering North East Lincolnshire Council in support of this, sadly, all too relevant challenge.

“It will benefit our community and the village as a whole; we are pleased to say we’re making a positive difference to the borough.”

Councillor Ron Shepherd, Portfolio Holder for Safer and Stronger Communities, added: “We’re glad to be building these partnerships across all areas of North East Lincolnshire.

“We appreciate the majority of dog owners are responsible, but it is the minority that need to understand that they have a duty of care as a pet owner.

“I urge as many businesses, organisations and charities to become a Poo Bag Partner and help us to stop this issue from blighting our streets.”

To become a Poo Bag Partner yourself, email communities@nelincs.gov.uk