CAMPAIGN AGAINST BEACH BAN ON DOGS GATHERS SUPPORT
More than 1,400 people have signed a petition against a seasonal ban on dogs on an East Sussex beach.
Hastings Borough Council has introduced a Public Space Protection Order which bans dogs from two parts of Stade beach between 1 April and 30 September.
Petition organiser Anne Pottle said the decision had "left many of us without a beach to walk our beloved pets during these months".
The council said many of the responses to a public consultation were in favour of the ban.
The exclusion areas are from the east side of Rock-a-Nore to the east side of Hastings Pier, and from the west end of Bottle Alley to opposite the Royal Victoria Hotel.
Anyone in breach of the restrictions could face an on-the-spot fine of £100, or prosecution in court with a fine of up to £1,000.
The petition, which is nearing its goal of 1,500 signatures, stated: "This is not just about dog walking; it's about preserving our community spirit and ensuring inclusivity for all residents."
Signatories are calling on the council to reconsider its decision and allow dogs access to the beach all year round.
They also want "reasonable rules" that respect both dog owners and non-dog owners.
The council said dogs were allowed on the beach at any time from the west of Hastings Pier to the west end of Bottle Alley, and from opposite the Royal Victoria Hotel to the border with Rother.
A council spokesperson said: “We understand the need for spaces where dogs can be exercised and carried out a consultation to gather views on the new dog [order] before it came into effect.
"Many of the public responses concluded the original dog controls, which were in effect from 2008 to 2020, were fair.
"After reviewing the responses and report, the council’s cabinet did not implement the winter restrictions but did extend the exclusion date to begin on 1 April when the town becomes busier with Easter holiday visitors."
The authority said from 1 October to 31 March dogs were allowed on all parts of the beach either on or off-lead.
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