Beadnell beach off-lead dog ban rejected following backlash from locals and businesses
The idea of an off-lead dog ban at one of Northumberland’s most popular beaches has been rejected following community backlash.
Opposition to the ban followed Beadnell Parish Council revealing it was considering introducing new rules that would stop dogs from being let off their leads between May and September at Beadnell Bay.
A spokeswoman for the council said that the policy was being considered as dogs can be ‘frightening to children’ and ‘disruptive’ and that there had also been some fouling issues.
The news sparked outrage among the community with 500 emails being sent to the parish council. 22 supported the restriction, but the vast majority were against any need to keep dogs on leads.
North Coast Collective, who own The Craster Arms and the Landing at Beadnell, also launched a Facebook appeal against the decision.
In a post which has over 350 comments, they made it clear they do not support the policy, adding: “We would like to urge the parish council to see sense and reject this proposal.
“We have for many years supported this wonderful village and we are proud to call it our home but unfortunately are finding it increasing difficult to continue this when our parish council does not seem to understand, respect and support the needs of its businesses.”
A meeting of Beadnell Parish Council was also attended by around 100 people with an overwhelming majority opposing the plans and it was agreed they would not go ahead.
A spokesperson from Beadnell Parish Council said that the council do not have the power to impose restrictions and if there was evidence to support any actions, it would have been referred to Northumberland County Council.
They added: "Beadnell Parish Council agreed not to revisit this issue unless they receive a petition from at least 10% of residents with evidence of genuine concern.”
Cllr Guy Renner-Thompson, Bamburgh ward, also spoke out against any further dog restrictions and said the meeting was the most well-attended he had ever seen.
He added: "I would never allow any further restrictions. It would damage the important tourist trade in the village and not be fair for the thousands of locals and visitors who are responsible dog owners."