ENCOURAGING responsible dog ownership has been named a top priority for Burnley Council.

A working group of councillors has drawn up an action plan covering all aspects of dog services provided by the authority.

The plan is due to be ratified by the council’s executive on December 10.

Coun Tony Harrison, executive member for community services, said: “We know issues such as dog fouling and stray or out of control dogs are major causes of concern to our residents.

“They are a top priority for the council which has invested in improving our dog services work.

“We are teaming up with partners such as the Dogs Trust to work with and support the vast majority of dog owners who are responsible.

“At the same time we are coming down hard on the selfish minority who don’t clean up after their dog or allow them to roam free without any control.”