Public urged to share views on walking dogs on the Yorkshire Coast
North Yorkshire Council has started a consultation
People are being encouraged to comment on the rules for walking dogs in and around Scarborough, Whitby and Filey.
North Yorkshire Council has launched a public consultation today (Monday 21st August) to "promote responsible ownership and ensure a safe environment."
Views are wanted on the existing Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) in coastal towns and villages.
The PSPO outlines areas in which a dog must be put on a lead when directed, rules around dog fouling and any dog exclusion areas.
This is in place to help to ensure everyone can enjoy the open spaces and beaches in this part of the county and to help to protect wildlife. Unless extended, the existing PSPO will come to an end in January 2024.
North Yorkshire Council is therefore urging the public to share their views on whether the measures currently in place are still reasonable, whether anything needs changing or whether any other areas would benefit from some form of control.
The council’s executive member for managing our environment, Cllr Greg White, said: “The PSPO regarding dog control in the Filey, Scarborough and Whitby area ensures everyone can enjoy our public spaces without compromising on safety or cleanliness.
"I urge everyone, interested in this subject, to share their views on what they believe would be a proportionate but effective level of dog control for these areas."
The consultation is available on the council's website and is open until Sunday 15th October.
Following the consultation, the findings will be reviewed for a formal decision.
The council says it will agree a common approach for dog control across the county. However, this requires more time and planning, which is why it is currently focussing on restrictions in Filey, Scarborough and Whitby.