Dog ban in cemeteries and parks is overdue

This is not an isolated incident. You only have to walk a few yards to see a pile of dog filth and then another. I noticed two piles outside the main offices so people aren’t the least bit concerned who sees them although it most probably happens at weekends when there are no staff working.

There have been two notices placed on the main gates in recent weeks stating that people have been prosecuted for not cleaning up their dog mess. This is no way an effective measure as the cemeteries are not patrolled enough to catch the offenders and dog signs go unheeded.

Dog owners are using Burnley Cemetery for the sole purpose of their uncontrolled, unleashed dogs relieving themselves. Very rarely do I see someone carrying a poo bag or visiting a grave. It is near on impossible to spot an offending pile amongst gravestones and leaves, until it’s too late and you have walked in it.

Is it not time that Burnley Council opted for a complete dog ban in our cemeteries and parks? Surely there is no good reason to allow dogs into our cemeteries and parks? There are lots of open countryside around the cemetery and Burnley is surrounded by open spaces. Exercising dogs in recreational areas is surely a health hazard in this day and age. Very unpleasant when you walk in it and a total ban is long overdue!

Disgruntled resident