Just four people have been fined for letting their dogs foul the streets of Weymouth months on from the roll-out of a scheme designed to tackle the problem.

Figures published by Weymouth and Portland Borough Council reveal that, up to May 28, only four fines were handed out by a private litter enforcement – one per cent of the total number of fines issued. The figures show that 306 fines were handed out for littering, of which 86 per cent related to dropped cigarette ends.

Cllr Francis Drake, borough council briefholder for community safety, said he is ‘generally happy’ with the scheme – but admitted the rate of fines for dog fouling is ‘low’.

In 2015, the Dorset Echo reported that just two fines for dog fouling had been handed out by the borough council in five years – despite more than 900 complaints.

The private firm 3GS took on responsibility for handing out fines in February this year. The arrangement does not cost the borough council anything but the firm retain income from the fines. A report set to go before the scrutiny and performance committee, which contains the figures, states that a decision will be made later in the year whether to retain the services of 3GS beyond the initial 12-month trial period. It’s expected that the arrangement will break even in the first year, and make a small surplus in the second and third years, if the scheme continues. Any surplus – or shortfall – would be shared equally between the council and the firm.

Cllr Drake said he believes fewer people are leaving their dog mess on the streets after the issue was widely publicised in the Dorset Echo.

He added: “I think a lot of people are being responsible but also the difficulty is catching those who don’t clean up after their dogs. The hardest thing is that the enforcement officer has to see the dog doing it.”

Cllr Drake said more up to date figures show six fines have been handed out for dog fouling since the start of the scheme.

“I am very happy with what they are doing so far. Around town in general you do not see many cigarette stumps so it must be working. But I would like to see more fines issued for dog fouling.”

Wyke Regis resident Julie Sedgwick spoke out about the amount of dog fouling on the Rodwell Trail in March.

She said the trail was ‘remarkably clean’ after the issue was raised in the Echo.

“I think people have taken notice. People still do it but it’s difficult trying to catch them. The number of fines is a low amount, but at least it is an amount, and it shows there are people watching.”

The report will outline the progress of the scheme to committee members at the meeting on Thursday (june15).

It also notes that 3GS have suggested dropping the early payment option. Litterbugs currently face fines of £75, or £50 if paid within seven days, while those not cleaning up after their dogs are charged £100, or £75 if paid within 14 days.

The borough council is also considering an option which would offer smokers handed fines for dropping cigarette ends a full refund if they complete a stop smoking course.