Newport residents might soon find it easier to keep their streets and parks clean, thanks to a proposal to offer free dog poo bags in local parks. A local councillor believes the initiative could significantly reduce the amount of dog waste left on pavements and green spaces across the city.

The councillor argues that providing free bags at key locations within parks would remove a common excuse for dog owners who fail to pick up after their pets: not having a bag readily available. By making it as convenient as possible to dispose of dog waste responsibly, the hope is that more owners will do the right thing, leading to cleaner and more enjoyable public spaces for everyone.

"We want Newport to be a clean and welcoming city," the councillor stated. "Dog fouling is a persistent problem, and we believe this initiative could be a simple yet effective solution. By providing free bags, we're removing a barrier to responsible dog ownership and encouraging everyone to play their part in keeping our streets and parks clean."

The proposal is currently under consideration as part of a wider review of dog-related Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs) in Newport. These orders aim to address a range of issues, including dog fouling, dogs off leads in designated areas, and restrictions on the number of dogs one person can walk at a time.

The local council is encouraging residents to share their views on the proposed changes, including the free dog poo bag initiative, through an online consultation. This provides an opportunity for the public to voice their opinions and contribute to shaping the future of dog control measures in Newport. The consultation, which covers a range of proposals related to responsible dog ownership, can be found at: https://newportparksandoutdoorspaces.commonplace.is/proposals/newport-dog-pspo/step1. Residents are urged to participate and help the council create a cleaner, safer, and more enjoyable environment for all.