by Rebecca Hannant
New signs have been placed across Withernsea as part of a bid to tackle dog fouling in the town.
Following concerns raised by several residents, South East Holderness ward councillors Sean McMaster and Lyn Healing say that irresponsible dog ownership is causing growing frustration as some owners are not picking up after their pets.
Over the summer, they noticed a steady rise in the number of complaints about dog fouling in the South East Holderness area.
They contacted the dog warden team at East Riding Council, who created several signs that have been placed in hotspots in Withernsea, with more signs to be installed in surrounding villages at a later date.
Lyn and Sean said: “While most dog owners are responsible and pick up after their pets, a small number continue to disregard this basic courtesy. This behaviour is simply unacceptable. Our recent discussions with the dog warden team focused on exploring solutions, including new signage.
“One such initiative involves signage that was trialled in Bridlington, which we decided to implement in Withernsea. While out on Sunday, we received positive feedback from residents on these signs.”
They added that the signage, which has been personally funded by both councillors, is one step in a broader campaign to promote responsible pet ownership.
More signs will be placed around the area soon, including a bright, colourful design created by a local primary school.