Plans for joint dog warden scheme

At the moment, Richmondshire and Hambleton run their operations independently, even though their daily duties are similar.

Both enforce legislation to control dog fouling, round up strays and help promote responsible pet ownership.

However, in January this year, Richmondshire's environment chiefs indicated they would be studying ways of improving efficiency.

With Hambleton's service praised in a Government best value review, the neighbouring authority's are now the first in the region to consider a joint operation.

Contracts for both district's current services expire next March, although, at the moment, they are held by different operators.

Because there are no other similar projects running elsewhere in the district, neither authority can be sure if a joint service would save money - and, if so, how much.

But Richmondshire District Council's environment committee will be warned tomorrow evening, it will have to move quickly if members want to seize the opportunity.

The tendering process must begin in January and, with the Christmas break now looming, the authority's officers say they need a mandate to proceed with negotiations with Hambleton as soon as possible.

Three options will be tabled tomorrow.

The first suggests Richmondshire's dog warden service should fully integrate with Hambleton.

The second proposes that both authorities offer similar contracts, which can be linked if it proves to be to their mutual benefit.

Alternatively, Richmondshire could reject the partnership and vote to continue independently.

The report, tabled at the meeting to be held at Scotton Village Hall, from 6.30pm tomorrow, recommends both contracts are advertised separately.

"This option would allow for Richmondshire District Council to retain an independent contract, should either of the contract specifications not be agreed or should advantages be gained as a result of a joint contract," said the council's environment officer, Sean Little