Consultation launched into new dog ban along coast

A public consultation has been launched seeking to ban dogs and other pets between two areas of coastline in Kent.

The proposed Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) would last for three years and would replace an existing policy agreed by Thanet District Council in 2023.

The proposal covers the northern sea wall between Cold Harbour and Plum Pudding, located between Minnis Bay, in Birchington, and Reculver in Herne Bay.

The council said that the recommendation was based on evidence from Bird Wise East Kent, which reported significant disturbance to birds in the area and ongoing problems with dog control and dog fouling.

Dogwalker John, who has been walking his pet on Minnis Bay for more than 50 years, disagreed with the proposal.

"My English springer spaniel is trained and she behaves herself," he said.

"If we see people walking along the tideline, we advise them not to because they could be disturbing the birds, like the geese from Siberia."

Meanwhile, Philip, who also regularly walks his dog on Minnis Bay, said: "We've never seen an incident involving a dog and a bird."

Monica, who also lives in at Minnis Bay, said that the proposals were a "good idea".

"I've seen dogs off lead. If the council does impose a ban, we still have a large amount of beach to walk on," she said.

"However, I'm not sure if imposing a fine would deter people from breaking the rules. How would it be enforced?"

The public consultation runs from Friday to 9 October.

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