Wexford dog owners frustrated as overflowing bin on popular walking route ‘clearly not meeting demand’

By Simon Bourke, Wexford People

One of Wexford town’s most popular walking areas has become a health hazard due to an overflowing dog bin along the route. Located along the Riverbank walk, the bin is regularly piled high with discarded bags and surrounded by further waste on the ground.

Having received a number of complaints from those who regularly walk in the area, Councillor Robbie Staples said there are simply not enough dog bins along a route which sees a big increase in footfall during the summer months.

Describing the current situation as “unsustainable” and calling for a targeted expansion of dog waste facilities, Cllr Staples said the existing bins are “clearly not meeting demand.”

“Walkers and dog owners argue that the issue is not simply one of irresponsible behaviour, but of insufficient infrastructure,” said the Fine Gael councillor. “With only a limited number of bins servicing one of the busiest walking routes in the county, Wexford County Council (WCC) must act to prevent further deterioration of the popular amenity.

“Residents are urging the council to install additional bins along the Riverbank walk and to increase the frequency of servicing, particularly during peak periods. Many believe that small improvements would significantly enhance the cleanliness and enjoyment of the route.”

While the bin on the Riverbank walk is an extreme example, Cllr Staples said this is an issue which extends to the villages on the outskirts of Wexford town.

“Castlebridge and Curracloe – both home to large numbers of dog owners and popular walking routes – remain under-served, with few or no dedicated dog waste bins in key public areas,” he said. “This contributes to recurring litter problems and places an unfair burden on community volunteers who regularly pick up waste left behind.

Cllr Staples is calling for additional dog waste bins to be installed in both Castlebridge and Curracloe, arguing that rural villages should not be overlooked when it comes to basic public amenities. “People want to do the right thing,” he said. “But they need the facilities to do it.”