Dumpton dog-restriction beached

Following the receipt of a 130 signature petition Thanet District Council Cabinet was asked to consider a dog restriction between 10:00 – 18:00 at Dumpton Gap to apply from 1 May – 30 September. The ban would extend for approximately 200m either side of the beach access at Dumpton Gap.
Cllr Michelle Fenner, Cabinet Member for Business, Corporate and Regulatory Services, said: “We have to balance the needs of responsible dog owners with those of other beach users and the means we have for enforcing such a restriction. 
"As there are already many beaches where dogs are banned, we are keen to invite dog walkers to come to visit Thanet, knowing that people with young children or those who are unsure about sharing the beach with dogs are also catered for. I have therefore recommended that the restriction is not pursued further at this stage.
"I do, of course, urge dog-owners to be aware of other beach users and to make sure that they keep their pets under careful control to avoid causing unnecessary disturbance.
"We have to remember that much of the economy of Thanet depends on the tourist industry so we have to balance the needs of visitors with and without dogs and that of residents and local businesses.”