Have your say: Council seeks views on proposed dog control measures

Thanet District Council is inviting residents, visitors and local businesses to share their views on proposed updates to the district’s dog control rules.

Following approval from Cabinet meeting on Thursday 27 August, the council is seeking public feedback on proposals for a new Dog Control Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO). It will replace the PSPO agreed by Cabinet in October 2023.

The Dog Control PSPO helps to ensure that Thanet’s beaches, parks and open spaces remain clean, safe and welcoming for everyone. The proposed PSPO  contains a new restriction of no dogs on the beach year round, and dogs on leads on the Northern sea wall, between Cold Harbour and Plum Pudding at Birchington. This proposal is based on the evidence of significant impacts of disturbance on birds in this area received from Bird Wise East Kent.

The proposed new PSPO also includes the continuation of measures in the current PSPO, including:

• Continuing the strict rule that dog owners must clear up after their pets.
• Keeping dogs on leads in specific public areas, including popular promenades and sensitive wildlife habitats like Pegwell Bay.
• Maintaining seasonal dog exclusion zones on selected beaches from 1 May to 30 September, which is vital for retaining Thanet’s prestigious Blue Flag awards.
• A rule requiring owners to put their dog on a lead if asked to do so by an authorised council officer.

Cllr Heather Keen, Cabinet Member for Community said: “We know that the vast majority of dog owners in Thanet are responsible and care deeply about our local environment. Thanet is home to several internationally important nature reserves where protecting local birds and wildlife from disturbance is a key priority. 

“Should the PSPO go ahead as proposed, it will support that responsible ownership while ensuring that everyone—including children, local wildlife and people who don’t have dogs—can all enjoy our beautiful coastline and green spaces safely.

“This consultation is a vital step in our decision-making process. The proposals will help us safeguard our local nature reserves and maintain our award-winning beaches. However, it is important that we hear from the community. Anyone who has a view on these proposals is strongly encouraged to take part.”

The public consultation will allow the community to help shape the final rules before they are presented back to the Cabinet for a final decision later this year.

To view the full details of the proposed dog control measures and to take part in the consultation survey, please visit Your Voice Thanet – yourvoice.thanet.gov.uk