MEMBERS of Galashiels Community Council have been told it would not be possible to enforce a by-law banning dogs in the Netherdale area.

It comes after former Gala Rugby player and coach Johnny Gray told the group dog owners were not picking up after their pets on the playing fields.

But at the meeting on Wednesday, May 10, a short statement read by chairwoman Judith Cleghorn revealed the council had no intention of introducing the measure.

Mr Gray said: “We are not prepared to accept that and we will argue strongly to get something put in place.

“We know by-laws are difficult to put in place, but we won’t accept it.”
And members agreed that something has to be done to find a suitable solution.

Community councillor Drew Tulley added: “Unfortunately this issue does not go away. The penalties that are currently available for dog owners (who don’t pick up after their pests) are inadequate.

“Perhaps we could look at whether something could be done on a national level. If there is nobody there to enforce the rules, then unfortunately you are wasting your time.”

Councillor Sandy Aitchison said he would continue to work to tackle the issue.

He told the meeting: “I have been working with Councillor Tom Weatherston (Kelso and District) and we have been taking the issue very seriously.

“It is always an issue Tom talks about and he has not been taking no for an answer.

“We will be looking at starting another national petition to try to get this resolved.”