A scheme to tackle dog mess in Bromley by installing public stations stocked with compostable waste bags is expanding across the borough.

In 2017, 24 stations were installed at various dog fouling hotspots by the borough’s park services contractor idverde, in partnership with Tikspac, which introduced the concept to 30 councils in the UK.

The project aims to leave owners who may have forgotten or run out of bags with no excuse.

To date, 112,500 bags have been dispensed annually in the borough, and now 20 further stations are being introduced.

Patrick Phillips of idverde said: “There are an estimated 8 million dogs in the UK. Between them they produce over 1,000 tonnes of faeces every day.

“This initiative is designed to encourage more people to take responsibility for cleaning-up after their pets and supports idverde and the borough of Bromley’s aim to create attractive community settings that are safe and hygienic.

“Since the initial installation of the Tikspac stations, we have seen a significant reduction in dog fouling within those locations.

“The community champions and volunteers that help to refill the stations have been fantastic and we are proud to serve such a great community.”

Friends of Parks groups are supporting the initiative and helping keep stations stocked with 100 per cent fully compostable dog waste bags freely available to dog owners.

This project has been wholly sponsored by the collective group of local businesses.

The TiksPac concept originated in Sweden, where the initiative has been lauded as a success.

Councillor William Huntington-Thresher, Executive Councillor for Environment and Community Services said: “A big thank you to all involved and to our Friends of Parks groups who are practically supporting this.

“Our ongoing responsible dog ownership campaign has many facets and this is very much part of this and is a practical help to dog walkers.

“There are a minority of dog walkers who don’t clear up after their dog and I would encourage all dog owners to behave responsibly and this is something we are actively monitoring and we can and will take enforcement action.”