Action plan to tackle litter and dog mess

A NEW coordinated approach to tackling litter, fly-tipping and dog fouling across Dumfries and Galloway is set to move forward.

The council is developing a Litter Prevention Strategy and Draft Litter Reduction Action Plan for the region.

And they say the public are strongly in favour, with engagement feedback showing people want to see a joined-up approach combining practical improvements, education, enforcement and partnership working.

A draft action plan was shown to councillors this week, setting out a coordinated programme of work focused on five key areas: improving infrastructure such as bins and signage; encouraging behaviour change through education; strengthening enforcement; supporting community involvement; and working more closely with businesses.

The final strategy is expected to come back to committee later this year.

Councillors also heard that although independent audits show that Dumfries and Galloway performs strongly on street cleanliness, public perception does not always reflect this – particularly in rural areas and along road networks.

Officials hope the new approach will maintain high standards while responding more visibly to local concerns.

Early work is already underway, including the reinstatement of lay-by bins, increased roadside cleansing activity, and engagement with partners such as the haulage industry to address persistent issues in key locations.

Commenting, Councillor Andy Ferguson, said: “Developing this action plan is an important step in strengthening how we manage litter across the region. The recommendations set out a clear, coordinated approach that will support effective delivery.

“This work will help protect our environment while supporting communities to take pride in their local area.”