Wish the dog bans on our Cornish beaches were different? Take the Cornwall Council survey!
Over the next couple of months, Cornwall Council have launched their consultation to get our thoughts on the PSPOs (aka Public Space Protection Orders) on Cornwall’s beaches. These orders are what make some beaches ban dogs either all year round, or have seasonal restrictions for when you can take them on the beach. They are reviewed every three years, consulting with members of the public as well as local councillors, parish councils and beach owners.
To understand what I mean, take a look at the current list of PSPOs (dog bans) here in Cornwall. Many beaches are unavailable for dogs between either Easter day or May 1st and 30th September, although some allow dogs before and after certain times in the day.
But now you can have your say on what you think about the bans on these beaches! The council have published a survey for members of the public, where you can let them know your opinions and whether you’d change the dates and times that dogs are allowed on certain beaches.
I’m always of the mindset that dogs themselves aren’t usually the issue; it’s irresponsible owners (and to be honest, badly behaved children can often be much more of a nuisance than dogs, let’s face it!). However I do understand the need for restriction on busy beaches during Summer holidays when it’s crowded. Personally I think excluding dogs between school holiday dates (Summer half term and the July/August break) is still a good idea, but change the times to something like allowing them on the beach before 10am and after 5 or 6pm, when it’s less crowded.
But everyone’s view is different, and whatever your opinion, it’s worth taking 5 minutes to fill out the survey and have your say! I believe you have until mid-November this year to do it, with the report published in January 2020.
PS. Here are some photos of my cousin’s puppy – Percy – experiencing a beach and the ocean for the first time the other day! They live in Watford so it was the first time he’s been to the coast – how cute.
I would like to see dogs on beaches allowed throughout the summer. A part of the beach could be sectioned off for dog owners. After all if Cornwall wants their economy supported by holiday makers a great proportion of visitors are dog owners. It works on North Cornwall beaches on Fistrel. But Falmouth not so good. I do hope things will change and I know it would be much appreciated by dog owners.