THE dirty streets of Townstal are 'absolutely disgusting', it has been claimed.

Concerns over waste collection, street sweeping, litter and dog bins need to be sorted as fast as possible, according to county and district councillor Jonathan Hawkins.

'It is a big issue up there and we need to address problems and make people take ownership of their own streets,' he told Dartmouth Town Council on Monday.

He said he had been saddened by the state of Townstal streets on a recent walkabout where he saw litter dropped at the roadside and in hedges. One bin was overflowing with dog waste and a bag had been put in the bushes, he said.

Cllr Hawkins is working with Townstal Community Partnership to organise a litter pick and TCP chairman Cllr Steve Smith has urged residents to take pride in their surroundings and help smarten up the estate.

On Tuesday, Cllr Hawkins along with town councillor Robin Springett met at Townstal with officers from South Hams Council to discuss how resources could be used to overcome concerns, particularly over dog waste and general litter.

Cllr Hawkins said assurances were given that the district council would look into the problems and review the level of service.

'We hope this will happen as soon as possible,' he said after the meeting.

'New signage over dog waste and litter will be looked into. It is a great shame that a few inconsiderate dog owners and residents spoil it for the majority.'

For more on this story, see this week's Dartmouth Chronicle