Hartlepool dogwalkers urged to take used poo bags home as coronavirus crisis prompts fears of using dog bins

The appeal has been issued by Hartlepool Borough Council in an attempt to ensure the town’s streets and green spaces are kept as clean, after a significant increase in the amount of waste reported in some areas of the town.

While the Council is continuing to empty bins, it is asking for the public’s support to help ease the pressure staff are under as a result of the outbreak.

Tony Hanson, the Council’s Assistant Director (Environment and Neighbourhood Services), said: “This situation is probably down to the fact that during the current outbreak more people are walking their dogs and exercising in open spaces across the town.

“One particular issue we are facing is that there has been a noticeable increase in bagged waste deposited on top of dog foul bins and on the ground around them.

“We suspect that this may be because people are reluctant to touch the metal lids for fear of infection. Often, when one person does this others follow suit.

“Indeed, when council staff responded recently to a report of a full dog foul bin they found that it was actually half empty.

“We would urge members of the public to dispose of their waste at home, and we would be very grateful for any support they are able to offer us.”

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