Dog dirt proving to be a problem in Dirty Lane

Dog owners in West Sussex are being urged to clean up after their pets, after the issue was identified at an aptly-named location. Incidents of dog fouling have blighted parts of Ashurst Wood in recent years, with Dirty Lane proving to be a particular problem hotspot.



It has led the parish council to release a statement reminding residents of their responsibility in keeping the village safe and clean for the benefit of the community. It read: "Ashurst Wood Parish Council would like to remind residents to clean up after their dogs. Dog fouling is a particular issue in Dirty Lane.

"Dog bins are provided around the village, and there is one sited on School Lane, just at the top of Dirty Lane." The topic was reported by the Courier in April 2012, after concerned parents said they had spotted several piles of dog mess in the village. At the time, Councillor Pru Moore, cabinet member for leisure and sustainability at Mid Sussex District Council, said it was "an ongoing issue".



Despite this, the local authority admitted by that time it had issued just one fixed penalty notice for dog fouling since new dog control measures were introduced in November 2010. Offenders are liable to a £75 fixed penalty notice which, if not paid, could result in prosecution with a maximum fine of £1,000. Ashurst Wood Parish Council's advice is to "stick it in a bin or take it home with you".