Dogsey

DOG owners will be able to take their pets onto a beach all year round after proposals to introduce a summer ban were dropped.

More than 60 per cent of the 445 people who took part in a consultation by Durham County Council were against proposals for a Dog Control Order, which would have banned dogs from certain parts of the beach at Seaham between April 1 and September 30.

The consultation was carried out with support from Seaham Town Council.

Many who responded said most people who walk their dogs on the beaches do clean up after their pets and felt it was an irresponsible minority of dog walkers who spoiled the beaches.

The proposed order would have been in place from the entrance to Seaham Hall car park to, and including, the beach area at the marina.

Oliver Sherratt, the county council’s head of direct services, said it will be working with the town council and community to promote responsible dog ownership.

He added: “We will also be increasing our beach patrols during the summer months and anyone caught failing to pick up after their pet will be issued with an £80 fixed penalty notice.”