Clwyd West MS Darren Millar is urging Conwy County Borough Council to rethink its proposals to ban dogs from a stretch of beach between Colwyn Bay and Rhos-on-Sea.
A current Dog Control Public Spaces Protection Order for the county expires next month and the local authority is now looking to extend it for the next three years and add three new areas - the dry beach between Colwyn Bay and Rhos-on-Sea, Rhos Point to the Promenade Access Point in line with College Avenue and Penmachno Playing Field.
But Darren has criticised the plans, which he said would penalise “a great many responsible dog owners”.
He said:
“We are extremely fortunate to have a beautiful stretch of beach between Colwyn Bay and Rhos-on-Sea which is currently enjoyed daily by locals and visitors, and their four-legged friends.
“Whilst I understand that there are some irresponsible dog owners who do not pick up after their dogs, I do not believe that this should result in all dogs being unable to use this stretch of beach, which is more than big enough for everyone to enjoy.
“Dogs need to be exercised and the beach is an ideal place to take them out. The fresh sea air is not only good for them, but also for their owners, and it would be a great shame if people were prevented from enjoying a relaxing stroll along the beach with their dogs.
“We already have areas of the beach where dogs are not allowed to go, and where people who are not dog lovers can visit, there doesn’t need to be yet another huge expanse which is also out of bounds.
“Many dog walkers from the area have already hit out at the proposals, and, as a dog owner myself, I can fully understand why.
“This Draconian ban would not only penalise a great many responsible dog owners, it would also push them to use the many beaches in North Wales which do allow dogs instead, adversely impacting businesses in Colwyn Bay and Rhos on Sea.
“The Council must listen to the public, rethink its proposals, and focus its attention on targeting and punishing the small minority of dog walkers who do not control their dogs or pick up after their pet.”
Darren will be joining a protest held by dog walkers on Sunday afternoon at 2pm on Rhos promenade.
