People living near an area of green they claim is constantly blighted by dog mess have criticised irresponsible dog owners for allowing their pets to foul without clearing up after them.

They say the problem in Anne Boleyn Close, Eastchurch, is caused by people letting their dogs mess and not picking it up and un-supervised dogs roaming the area.

It is mainly happening on an area of grass around the fenced-off children’s play area and has prompted Eastchurch Parish Council to contact Swale council to ask for the dog warden to patrol the area regularly, and for the broken dog bin to be replaced.

Fiona Jackson, clerk to the parish council, said: “There are some owners that are not clearing up after their dogs. It has been reported to the parish council, and the dog warden has been made aware.

“It also appears there are some people letting their dogs out unattended.”

She said the issue has been raised at Police and Communities Together (PACT) meetings and the council has agreed to replace the old bin and ensure the dog warden carries out regular patrols.

“It is something that has occurred since I started as parish clerk two years ago, and is something residents have voiced a concern about.” She added.

“The council has been pro-active since the problem was reported and hopefully the problem should be sorted out.”

Swale council’s animal control officer Tim Oxley said: “Swale Borough Council investigates all reports of dog fouling, and inspections are often arranged to target potential offenders. Swale’s Street Wardens have visited the area at Anne Boleyn Close and, for now, have put up signs where possible, deterring owners from not picking up after their dogs and informing them of the consequences of their actions.

“Our street wardens regularly patrol the area and if they witness a dog owner failing to clear up after their dog, they will issue fixed penalty notices, in line with our zero tolerance policy.”

To report dog fouling call the council on 01795 417850 or visit www.swale.gov.uk