Donkey Rides Banned on Coney Beach in Wales
A long-standing tradition of donkey rides on Coney Beach in Porthcawl, Bridgend, has come to an end after a new rule was introduced by the local council. The ban applies to all animals during the peak summer months from May 1 to September 30, effectively ending the practice that had been in place since 1918.
The decision by the Labour-led Bridgend Council has caused concern among local residents and business owners who have relied on the donkey rides as a key attraction for tourists. Jay Bateman, who runs a donkey-riding business with his family near the beach, expressed his disappointment over the change.
He said: ‘It’s been in our family since 1918. We have maintained the beach, done the bins on the beach.’ Mr Bateman added that his family is now in a difficult position as they must keep the donkeys ‘all year round’ despite the loss of income from the seasonal rides.
This move comes at a challenging time for the resort’s tourism industry, which has already faced setbacks following the closure of the 100-year-old Coney Beach Amusement Park last year. The park, which opened during the final days of World War I, was shut down to make way for 980 houses.
Bridgend Council recently took over the running of the beach and stated that ‘all previous seasonal activities for this beach were determined by the former management of the site.’ The council also mentioned that the seasonal beach restrictions, initially applied to dogs, have now been extended to cover all animals, except guide and assistance dogs.
As a result, the council is unable to grant a licence for seasonal donkey or pony riding at Coney Beach. This decision has raised concerns among local businesses and visitors who have enjoyed the unique experience of riding donkeys along the shore.
In addition to the donkey ride ban, the Porthcawl Waterfront Regeneration Scheme aims to bring new developments to the area. Plans include the construction of a Lido swimming pool opposite the marina and a seasonal funfair. The redevelopment also includes green spaces, shops, a site for motor-homes and caravans, and various leisure attractions.
The council emphasized that the regeneration plans will soon introduce ‘new activities and stalls’ to the beach. A spokesperson for the Bridgend County Borough Council stated: ‘The seasonal beach restrictions for dogs between May 1 and September 30 have now been extended to cover all animals (except guide and assistance dogs).’
They added: ‘With this in mind, we are unable to grant a licence for seasonal donkey or pony riding at Coney Beach going forward. As part of the Porthcawl Waterfront Regeneration Scheme, we have recently taken over the management of Coney Beach and remain focused on recognising the importance of traditional seaside attractions while also reflecting our final masterplan proposals and long-term ambitions for the area.’
The council is currently reviewing expressions of interest for seasonal activities at Coney Beach. Residents and visitors are encouraged to stay tuned for exciting announcements about a wide range of activities and stalls in the near future.
