Dog beach rules set to continue after consultation

Most people in Cornwall believe current rules restricting when dogs are allowed on beaches should remain as they are, according to a consultation.

Cornwall Council discussed a recommendation to carry forward its existing Public Space Protection Order (PSPO), which local authorities are required to review every three years.

Rules currently ban dogs from 46 beaches, from 10:00 - 18:00 GMT between 1 July and 31 August, although Blue Flag beaches have restrictions in place from 15 May until the end of September.

The meeting heard 3,899 dog owners responded, compared to 2,635 without dogs and the recommendation to the committee was that current restrictions are renewed for a further three years.

Members voted unanimously for the recommendation and councillor Thalia Marrington, cabinet member for community safety and public health, will be asked to approve.

People were asked to share their views between October and December and 48% of respondents agreed current restrictions provided the right balance, while 47% disagreed.

Responses showed 51% of dog owners, and 44% of people without dogs, also agreed with current restrictions, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

The meeting was told it was a challenge to enforce PSPOs on all beaches. It previously said it was an offence to allow dogs to foul and not clear up and a £100 fixed penalty notice could be issued for each offence.

A committee report said: "The consultation feedback indicates that people generally agree with the need for restrictions.

"It remains an emotive subject which invokes strong opinions for both dog owners and non-dog owners. It appears that the current restrictions have found a middle ground."

Committee vice-chairman, councillor James Mustoe, said the council had not heard of any major concerns during the consultation.

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