Dog owners are being warned that seasonal bans come into force on a number of beaches across Tendring next month in an effort to keep the District's golden sands as clean as possible this summer.

The bans on dogs - which affect a number of popular beaches throughout Tendring - begin to bite on May 1 and go through the summer season to the end of September.

They are in force 24 hours a day and dogs found to be in breach could present their owner with a maximum fine of up to £500.

The restrictions apply to 11 resort beaches in Clacton, Brightlingsea, Holland-on-Sea, Harwich, Dovercourt, Frinton and Walton.

Dogs are not only banned from the beaches, but on adjacent promenades and cliff paths they must be kept on a lead.

All the controls are clearly advertised on map style signs so no one should be in any doubt of where they are allowed to take their pets.

However, dog owners can rest assured that there are still plenty of beaches available for them to exercise their pets around the Tendring coastline, always bearing in mind that they must clean up after their dogs.

Michael Talbot, TDC's Portfolio Holder for the Environment, said that it was not only about keeping the beaches clean - although that was one very important reason for the restrictions.

"It is also important to avoid any potential conflict that may arise between dogs and others - such as families using the beaches," he said.

"We feel it is very important that everyone gets an opportunity to enjoy and make the most of the miles of golden sands on offer - and the bans only apply to 11 specific beaches."

The whole issue is policed by Tendring District Council's own Dog Wardens, Seafront Seasonal Staff and Police Community Support Officers.

Bans on resort beaches have been in place for a number of years. The latest one to be introduced at Martello Bay Beach in Clacton came into force for the first time in 2006.

1/4/09

See the dog ban page for more information