New paint stencils are being introduced to discourage dog fouling in the Lisburn & Castlereagh area.

Designed by Siobhán Curran, a pupil at St Ita’s Primary school, the new ‘Pick it up’ stencil will be applied by enforcement officers in hot spot areas where dog fouling is a problem. The temporary image, which lasts a few weeks, will be used to prompt dog walkers to ‘pick up’ after their pets.

Endorsing the new initiative, Chair of the council’s Environmental Services Committee, Councillor Martin Gregg said: “The paint stencil is a welcomed approach to tackle the ongoing issue of dog fouling in the Lisburn & Castlereagh area. The aim is to deter dog owners from letting their dogs foul in public. Dog fouling is not only irresponsible and unpleasant, it also poses serious health risks, especially to young children. As a council, we are committed to reducing dog fouling and hope that the stencils act as a trigger to remind dog walkers of the importance of picking up after their pets.”

Dog walkers are encouraged to carry bags and to dispose of any waste in a nearby litter bin. Please be reminded that if you fail to pick up after your dog, you could face a fine of up to £1000 in Court.