Wroughton and Wichelstowe Parish Council is asking residents to help make the area a “poo free parish” with the launch of a new campaign aimed at reducing dog fouling in parks and public spaces.
The initiative, officially launched today, takes a light-hearted approach to what remains a persistent problem across the parish. Rather than focusing on enforcement, the council hopes to encourage responsible dog ownership by reminding owners to pick up after their pets every time.
The campaign, aptly named Poo Free Parish, will see posters appear across the area, alongside regular messages on the council’s website and social media channels promoting the importance of clearing up dog waste.
Councillor Lisa Campisano, Chair of the parish council’s Open Spaces Committee, said the message behind the campaign was straightforward.
She said: “Our message is simple – we’re asking dog owners across Wroughton and Wichelstowe to help us become a poo free parish.
“We love our dogs and our green spaces, and we want to remind people that stopping to pick up their dog mess is easy to do and can save us all a lot of unpleasantness.”
Dog fouling remains a common complaint in many communities, not only because it spoils public spaces but also because it can pose a health risk, particularly to children using parks and open areas.
Within the parish, locations including Weir Field, Maunsell Way and the open spaces around Wichelstowe are regularly enjoyed by walkers and families but have also been affected by discarded dog waste.
The council believes that a positive campaign is more likely to change behaviour than simply highlighting the penalties available for those who fail to clean up after their pets.
Councillor John Hewer, Chair of Wroughton and Wichelstowe Parish Council, praised the majority of dog owners who already act responsibly.
He said: “Most dog owners in the parish are responsible and already clean up after their pets, and we would like to thank them for helping to keep Wroughton and Wichelstowe clean.
“This campaign is about encouraging everyone to do the right thing every time. By picking up after your dog, you are helping to protect public health and improve our environment.”
The campaign will continue over the coming months, with the parish council hoping its simple message will lead to cleaner footpaths, parks and green spaces for everyone to enjoy.
Residents can expect to see campaign posters around the parish as well as regular reminders online, all aimed at making Wroughton and Wichelstowe a cleaner place for people and their four-legged companions alike.
