DOG owners who allow their pets to foul public areas and then don't tidy it up could face a £1,000 fine.

Bolton Council intends to adopt powers to fine offenders under the Dogs (Fouling of Land) Act 1996 by next April.

The council has advertised its plans and is looking for comments from the public.

Examples of land covered by the Act include:

Roads with a speed limit of 40mph or less along with adjoining footpaths and verges.

Footpaths, back streets and passageways together with verges, whether privately maintained or adopted by the council.

Parks and open spaces maintained by the council including children's play areas.

Land provided for public, recreation, sporting or educational uses including school playing areas.

Burial grounds and cemeteries, gardens of remembrance together with associated landscaped areas and gardens.

Public footpaths and bridleways.

Land adjacent to watercourses, rivers, stream or reservoirs.

Land used as car parks or waiting areas, lay-bys etc.

Forecourts of railway and bus stations, bus shelters etc.

Nature reserves, country parks and woodland areas open to the public.

Land used for markets or fairs.

Land in connection with recycling areas or for the disposal of household waste.

"Responsible dog owners should have nothing to fear from this legislation," said Cllr Bernard Ramsden.

"This will be a significant extension of the existing powers which only cover footpaths and limited areas or adjacent verges. To avoid any possibility of being fined, dog owners and handlers are advised to remove any faeces deposited by their dogs.

"However most dog owners are responsible and take a 'poop scoop' when they go out for a walk."

The order can be examined at the office of the Director of Central Services, First Floor, Town Hall, and comments should be submitted to the Borough Environmental Health Officer, Weston house, Weston Street, Bolton BL3 2AR, before January 14.

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