Paws for Shores
PAUL MCLAUGHLIN
Hastings Borough Council is to review the controversial ban of dogs on public beaches which came into force in March. The decision follows a concerted campaign by dog owners against the exclusion areas and restrictions, particularly at Rock-a-Nore and the Stade beaches.
The updated ‘dog control public space protection order’ (PSPO) banned dogs on all beaches from the east of Rock-a-Nore almost up to Hastings Pier and from the west end of Bottle Alley to opposite the Royal Victoria Hotel from 1 April to 30 September. Dogs must also be on a lead along the whole promenade. Offending owners could receive an on-the-spot fine of up to £100 or be prosecuted and fined up to £1,000.
Anne Pottle of ‘Paws for Shores’ led the campaign against the extension of the beach ban saying dog owners in the Old Town have been particularly affected by the exclusion. They can now only walk their dogs on the East or West Hills or a small section of beach at the pier. The old and disabled struggle to comply with the new rules.
She set up a social media campaign and organised a demonstration on the beach in April during the local election campaign. The strength of feeling about the ban was apparent when more than 200 people gathered with their pets at the Stade Open Space in the Old Town. Labour and the Greens became embroiled in a heated campaign spat, with online allegations and election leaflets challenging the veracity of claims and counter-claims about who was responsible for issuing the order.
The level of support has prompted the new Green administration to re-examine the dog control PSPO. Glen Haffenden, the Green Party Deputy Leader, said the order could not simply be overturned but would require a new public consultation with stakeholders and interested parties. The details of the consultation are still being finalised but it is expected to begin by mid-August. Council Leader Julia Hilton said it would have to balance the views of dog owners with the views of people who don’t have dogs and want to enjoy the beach. Anne Pottle said she agreed with this sentiment adding that she was confident a compromise would be reached.
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