Specialist firm joins council's litter fight

3GS has been appointed as part of a 12-month pilot which empowers its officers to issue £80 fixed penalty notices for either dog fouling or littering.

Alongside enforcement, the officers will also fulfil an education role and are expected to be in post by late May.

The agreement is believed to be the first time a Scottish council and private company have teamed up on the issue.

The pilot is part of SBC’s new responsible dog ownership strategy,

The strategy follows extensive research to consider best practice from other local councils. These include prevention and changing behaviour, the introduction of enforcement officers targeting known blackspots and engagement with communities and volunteers.

Councillor David Paterson, SBC executive member for environmental services, said: “While we are keen to educate owners about the issue of dog fouling, the considerable feedback received from the public, communities and Councillors has indicated that enforcement is also crucial.

“That is why I am pleased to announce 3GS as the external contractor to work beside the Council by issuing tickets for dog fouling and littering.

“We are carrying out a number of positive educational activities including the Green Dog Walkers scheme, but for those not willing to listen, they face an £80 fine or potential court appearance.”

3GS’s Managing Director Paul Buttivant said: “We are obviously delighted to be working with Scottish Borders Council as they implement this pilot following significant pressure from local residents concerned about the escalating problems created by environmental crime, in particular dog fouling and litter.

“Residents can be reassured that our officers are highly trained and will only issue fixed penalty notice to individuals who choose not to observe the law.”