Pet lovers have launched a petition pleading with Southend Council to soften its ban on dogs on beaches during the summer months – attracting 200 signatures in just two days.
Southend residents Caroline Reynolds and Gillian Porter are behind calls for the ban to be lifted early in the morning and late in the evening so dogs can access the beach during the summer.
As things stand, dogs are banned totally from beaches between May 1 and September 30.
Ms Reynolds said: “Southend has seven miles of coastline and many residents have a dog who they love to walk along the beaches. October 1 was the first day for six months that dogs have been allowed on our beaches which is such a shame.
“Dogs love the beach and for six months we have had to walk along the promenade staring at our often empty beaches with our dogs looking longingly at the beaches and water they love.”
The council launched a consultation in 2020 to designate East Beach in Shoebury as a designated dog-friendly beach.
However, the idea was dropped after Natural England and Essex Wildlife Trust raised objections to siting a dog beach adjacent to a Blue Flag beach and on a site of special scientific interest.
Ms Reynolds added: “The proposed solution is that dog owners can use the beaches early and late between April and September, so they do not impact of members of the public who are enjoying picnics and time with their children on the beach.”
Lydia Hyde, councillor responsible for climate, environment and waste, insisted the council and Natural England are not “anti-dog” but the right location would need to be identified.
She highlighted that Southend’s beaches are “Ramsar areas” – designated as being important to the conservation of wetlands – while East Beach is a special area of conservation and Two Tree Island is a National Nature Reserve.
Cllr Hyde, added: “Natural England are not anti-dog, they just want to be convinced we’ve got an adequate plan to protect the nature in our coastline. If we can find a location and prepare appropriate safeguards, it may be possible to gain their approval for an alternative.”
“This is what I am currently working on, to see if there is a scheme that works for both our dogs and our wild birds. It will take lots of work and more discussion, but if it’s possible, I’m determined to do so.”
To sign the petition, visit change.org/dogsonSouthendbeaches
