Library image: Margate Magistrates’ Court
A dog walker who failed to clear up after a dog on a visit to The Warren has been fined. The woman, from Folkestone, was caught walking away from the mess left by the pet at the Site of Special Scientific Interest in April 2024.
Despite failing to provide her details to a Folkestone & Hythe District Council officer, she was identified following investigation. She also failed to attend a Margate Magistrates’ Court hearing on Thursday 31 October but was found guilty of breaching a Public Spaces Protection Order in her absence and was ordered to pay a £440 fine, £200 costs and a £176 victim surcharge.
Cllr Polly Blakemore – Cabinet Member for Transport, Regulatory Services and Building Control – said:
“It’s sad our officers are having to spend so much time trying to clamp down on those who don’t value our environment and natural heritage but we won’t relent.
“Dog fouling is deeply unpleasant and it is the owner’s responsibility – no one else’s – to clear up after them. We believe this outcome will prove to be a valuable lesson.”
Residents can report dog fouling directly to Folkestone & Hythe District Council by visiting its website here.