Annual dog beach ban set to be reintroduced

Following the publication of the government’s “road map to recovery” from coronavirus, Lancaster City Council is to reintroduce annual restrictions which exclude dogs from Morecambe’s bathing beaches.

Effective from midnight on Monday May 25 and running until September 30, dogs cannot be taken on to Morecambe South and North beaches. Together, these beaches cover the stretch of coast between the Battery and the Green Street breakwater.

The annual restrictions usually apply from May 1 but were relaxed due to rules restricting how far people could travel to exercise. With those restrictions now having been lifted, the beach ban has been reintroduced.

The prohibitions are in place to comply with the Seaside Award, which recognise beaches in England that achieve the highest standards of beach management and cleanliness. Restricting dogs during the summer months also helps to maintain water quality of the two beaches.

Over the next week appropriate signage will be put out on all entry points to the affected beaches and Morecambe Town Council’s Enforcement Officer will be out advising any dog walkers seen on the beach and promenade of the impending change.

Offenders will be issued with a fixed penalty notice of £80 to be paid within 14 days. This is reduced to £50 if paid within seven days. If a penalty notice is not paid, Lancaster City Council may prosecute the offender in the Magistrates Court. The maximum fine on summary conviction is level 3 on the standard scale (currently £1,000).

Dog owners are still welcome to exercise their dogs on the many miles of coastline not affected by the restrictions, including Half Moon Bay in Heysham, taking account of social distancing requirements.

You can report offenders by contacting the council’s dog wardens on 01524 582935. More information can be found at www.lancaster.gov.uk/dogwardens.

Last updated: 19 May 2020