A potential ban on dogs at a popular Somerset beach is under consideration for this summer, raising concerns among dog walkers who have enjoyed year-round access since the expiration of a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) in 2019.
Somerset Council is set to deliberate on new restrictions during a meeting scheduled for May 8th. The proposed measure entails prohibiting dogs from a designated section of Minehead beach, spanning from Minehead Golf Club Groyne to the Jubilee café, during the peak season from May to September. However, access between the café and the Harbour area would remain open to dog walkers.
Susan Marie, proprietor of Little Paws Dog Walking and Pet Sitting Services in Minehead, voiced apprehension about the limited space allocated under the proposal, expressing concerns over safety due to the rocky terrain. She advocated for a broader stretch of sandy beach to accommodate dog walkers.
PSPOs regulating dog access to beaches typically operate on a three-year cycle, necessitating renewal to uphold cleanliness and safety standards, particularly during the bustling summer months.
A consultation conducted by Somerset Council in August 2023 garnered over 530 responses, indicating a preference among Minehead residents and visitors for reinstating the ban. However, there remains a strong demand for retaining some level of beach access for canine companions.
