Welshpool's problem with dog poo could soon be targeted by Police community support officers.
PCSOs may be given extra powers to stop dog fouling across Powys, the county council’s cabinet has
The officers could be allowed to issue fixed penalty notices to owners who fail to clear up after their pets, but more work needs to be done before they get the go-ahead, members were told.
However, plans to bring in private enforcement companies to crack down on irresponsible dog owners and litter louts will not be taken any further because it would not be cost effective for them to cover such a large geographical area.
Councillrs urged the portfolio holder for environment and sustainability, Councillor John Powell, to reconsider using CEOs for dog fouling duties.
Dog fouling accounts for hundreds of complaints to the county council, but last year it only issued five fixed penalty notices based on information from the public.
The council’s cabinet agreed that the Community Safety Partnership could lead the push for extended powers for PCSOs to deal with dog fouling issues. But councillors were warned there is no budget for the work and its cost implications are unknown.
The matter will be discussed at a Community Safety Partnership meeting next week.
The Cabinet also agreed to continue its awareness and education campaigns.