DIRTY dogs are set to become public enemy number one as the majority of open land in Crewe and Nantwich becomes a "no-go" area.

Practically every public space in the borough is to be designated an area where dog owners are obliged to clean up after their pets - or face a hefty fine.

Although many areas are already covered by the law, lengthy consultations with parish councils by the borough council have resulted in a comprehensive list, which includes:

All carriageways with a speed limit of 40mph or less, and all adjoining footpaths and verges.

All footways and pedestrianised areas.

All unmade roads provided the public have access to them and all adjoining footpaths and verges.

All land and open space maintained by the borough council and Cheshire County Council.

All churchyards and cemeteries.

All school playing fields and playgrounds, and other land within schools and college grounds.

All pleasure grounds, public gardens and parks.

All playing fields, sports pitches and recreation grounds.

All public and private car parks.

All land owned by British Waterways.

Borough Environmental Services Chairman, Bob Jones, said: "Leaving dog dirt in public places is a very anti-social practice.

"It can also be potentially very dangerous, especially to vulnerable groups in our society such as children.

"We believe that people should become more responsible for their animals. To, in effect, outlaw the practice of allowing your dog to foul a public place and leave it,this is one way of trying to ensure that greater responsibility."

Conservative spokesperson Cllr Thelma Charlesworth said: "I fully support this proposal. As a borough councillor I receive many, many complaints about this filthy practice and irresponsible dog owners.

"There are already several bins specifically for dog dirt and I would encourage dog owners to use them.

"I look forward to a cleaner borough and being able to walk along the streets without the worry of having to avoid piles of filth."

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