Beadnell Parish Council Rejects Potential Dog Lead Ban
Beadnell Parish Council has decided not to support a potential requirement for dogs to be kept on leads during the summer at the village’s famous beach. This decision was made after a meeting on Thursday, where local residents and visitors raised concerns about the impact of such a ban on tourism.
Previously, the council had given one councillor permission to research the possibility of a ban during the bathing season. However, it is important to note that the parish council does not have the authority to impose restrictions. Any such measures would need to be introduced by Northumberland County Council.
Following the initial discussion about the potential ban, around 500 emails were sent to the parish council. Out of these, only 22 supported the restriction, while the “vast majority” were against the plans. Some residents suggested alternative solutions, such as creating “no dog zones” or allowing dogs to be off the lead during early mornings or late afternoons.
The parish council has also agreed not to revisit this issue unless they receive a petition from at least 10% of residents with evidence of “genuine concern.”
Coun Guy Renner-Thompson, who represents the area on Northumberland County Council, commented: “The restrictions on Beadnell Beach are the responsibility of the county council, and are not something I would ever support regardless. It would have a massive negative impact on tourism in the village, which is really important. A lot of local people use the beach to walk their dogs, and it is important their rights are respected.”
He continued: “You have to keep your dog on a lead on many public footpaths and in parks – quite rightly. Where else are you supposed to let your dog off the lead? If you don’t have your own land, the beach might be the only place.”
Responsibility and Advice for Dog Owners
A spokeswoman for the parish council added: “We ask that all residents and visitors with dogs read the Taking your Dog to the Coast leaflet provided by Natural England and freely available. This provides excellent advice about keeping dogs under close control, walking dogs near roosting and feeding birds, farm animals and stranded seals.”
She also highlighted that the leaflet warns about the consequences of not cleaning up after your dog or leaving bags anywhere other than in a waste bin, which is a criminal offence. The parish council often receives complaints about dog fouling in the village and on the beach.
This includes instances where bags are thrown into the sand dunes and left in hedges and beside pathways. In response, the council has recently requested help from NCC Dog Wardens to install No Dog Fouling signs on the Village Green behind St Ebbas Church.
Waste Management and Community Efforts
The Parish Council owns, insures and maintains 15 waste bins around the village. Following a recent request from the public, they are currently arranging for a bin to be installed at the junction of Swinhoe Road and The Kilns.
These efforts reflect the council’s commitment to maintaining cleanliness and ensuring that the beach remains a welcoming space for both residents and visitors. By promoting responsible dog ownership and encouraging compliance with local regulations, the council aims to preserve the natural beauty of Beadnell while supporting the community’s needs.
