Torbay Council have confirmed the seasonal dog ban on some of Torbay’s beaches is still in place and will not be suspended due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Torbay Council say a number of enquiries from local residents have been received, asking if the ‘dogs on beaches’ ban which runs from 1 May until 30 September, could be suspended during the coronavirus lockdown.
The council have said this request has been considered but the legislation does not permit suspensions, and any lifting of the ban could cause confusion for residents at a later date when the current lockdown restrictions are lifted. Therefore, they are asking all dog owners to observe the bylaw ban like any other season.
There are still a number of beaches within Torbay that are open to dogs including; Babbacombe Beach, Goodrington Sands North, Saltern Cove and Shoalstone Beach.
The Council are asking dog owners to continue to act responsibly and clean up after their dogs.
Councillor Mike Morey, Cabinet Member for Environment, Infrastructure and Culture for Torbay Council, said “We are still following government guidance during this second 3 week phase of the COVID-19 shutdown. As we don’t know how long the shutdown will go on for at this stage we will be following our usual seasonal policies. Once we know more about what the government’s longer term plans are, we will be in a better position to review our policies on any seasonal arrangements.
“There are of course numerous locations where dogs can be exercised that don’t have seasonal restrictions.”
Members of the public are reminded about the current COVID-19 restrictions with regards to social distancing and should only be leaving the house for essential journeys.
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