Horses not banned from Tendring's beaches this summer
Officers reportedly made a decision without councillors
Horses will be allowed on Tendring's beaches this summer - despite an announcement just over a week ago.
The leader of the District Council says officers made the decision to ban the animals without consulting the cabinet.
An investigation is now underway to find out what happened.
In a statement, the Council's leader said:
"This decision has been made by officers without the knowledge or consent of the Cabinet at Tendring District Council. This was wrong and for that I can only apologise.
"Furthermore, I have requested the Chief Executive to ensure a full and thorough investigation be undertaken to find out the events surrounding this and ensure it does not happen again
"Therefore, on behalf of Tendring District Council (TDC) I can confirm that there is no ban in force preventing horses using the District's beaches, including the one at Frinton."
They said that the local equestrian community are now developing their own code of practice, in consultation with the Council, which will minimise the risk to public safety and ensure compliance with local byelaws.
The statement continues:
"The Council is proud that whilst access to beaches for horses is relatively rare in this country, riders have been always been able to use the Essex Sunshine Coast.
"By working with the riding community on a code of conduct to preserve public safety, we are confident that we will be in a position to preserve this long into the future.
"The Council can use enforcement powers under the byelaws to maintain safety, although it is hoped that by the Council working together with the community this will not be necessary."