‘Disgust’ at daily dog dirt dilemma

The problem, they say, has been going on for years, but has got worse in the last six months.

“It’s the same every morning. There are piles of poo on the pavement, and we are left to clean it up,” said Tanya Slack from Riverside Catering.

“It has to be cleared up otherwise we have customers stepping over it.”

“I have complained to the council but nothing seems to be done. I don’t think their street cleaners pick it up any more.”

Marie Langlands, who works on Trinity Street, has drawn up a petition, and is rapidly collecting signatures in a call for action.

“I have phoned West Lindsey District Council three times in the last week, only to keep being told it’s a ‘deprived area’,” she said.

“We know that. But it’s no excuse not to keep the place clean.”

Marie also raised the issue with the South West Ward Community Panel on Monday. Representatives from the council and police said they would keep an eye on things.

“It’s a matter of public health,” said Marie. “I am a dog owner myself and I pick up after my dog.”

“Whoever is leaving this mess does not care for this neighbourhood its people.”

“It’s disgusting. I have seen children running along the pavement in bare feet to get to the shop. It’s only a matter of time before someone gets ill.”

David Holmes, who owns 17 properties along Trinity Street under Pad Property Investments said: “Trinity Street is the gateway to Gainsborough, yet much of it looks run-down and neglected.”

“You only get one chance to make a first impression.”

Ian Mills from Streat Cafe said the situation would not improve unless dog bins were provided.

“We’ve been saying it for years. Trinity Street needs investment. We can’t rely on community spirit alone,” he said.

WLDC told the Standard that Trinity Street was cleansed every day including weekends, at around 7am onwards.

Dog fouling reported after the street cleaning operative’s rounds is cleared by an Environmental Protection Act vehicle or a compact sweeper.

WLDC head of localism, Joanna Riddell, said: “We are actively working with Gainsborough Town Council and community groups in the South West Ward.”

“We will always take positive steps to deal with dog fouling and urge the community to call us with details of offenders on 01427 676676. Complaints will be dealt with in confidence.”