Views sought on beach restrictions for dogs

Dog owners could be allowed to walk their pets on restricted city beaches after a public consultation was approved.

Portsmouth City Council wants to hear resident's views about the areas where dogs are banned from 30 April to 30 September.

The exclusion covers Southsea Castle to the Royal Marine Yomper statue, and the Hotwalls section of the beach.

The online consultation is expected to begin on 20 September and run until 18 October.

The local authority said the changes being considered from next year were whether to allow dogs on the entire beach all year round but only during strict time periods during the bathing season, for example early mornings or later in the evenings.

Consideration is also being given to reducing the dog exclusion zone at Eastney.

Council leader Councillor Steve Pitt said: “The current public spaces protection order which covers the current restrictions runs out next year.

"With the number of dog owners in the city increasing since the last order came into force it’s important to ask people what they think about the current rules.

“I hope as many people as possible will take part in the consultation to help us make an informed decision on any changes.”

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