Walking your dog on a Causeway Coast & Glens Council beach this summer? Be aware of new restrictions
Anyone planning to walk their dogs on a Causeway Coast and Glens Council beach should be aware of new restrictions which come into play on June 1.
From June 1 to September 15, there are restrictions in place by law regarding where dogs are permitted on some beaches.
They are: Castlerock Beach from main vehicular entrance west (left) to Black Stone Cottage; Downhill Beach from row of white wooden posts westward (left) at entrance to the old pill box towards Benone (access behind Blue Flag area); Portrush West Strand Beach from steps at Castle Erin to Harbour Wall at South Pier; Portrush East Strand Beach from the Arcadia eastwards (right) to the stream.
The restrictions also apply to the entire small beach area at the Arcadia Whiterocks Beach in Portrush from the access to beach east (right) towards Dunluce Castle and Portballintrae Salmon Rock Beach (beach at car park).
Council’s Enforcement Team will be carrying out initiatives over the summer to enforce these provisions and anyone who allows their dog in a prohibited area is liable to a Fixed Penalty Notice or prosecution.
The Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Steven Callaghan said: “As a dog owner myself, I understand that not everyone is comfortable around dogs and restrictions are in place to ensure a balance whereby all beach users can enjoy our seaside areas together.
“Council has erected signs advising the public of these restrictions and has provided a presence at beaches to advise and educate anyone in breach of the regulations.
“Despite this, we continue to receive complaints about dogs in prohibited areas. We would encourage all beach users to be aware of these restrictions and comply with them fully to keep outdoor spaces safe and enjoyable for everyone.”
Council also reminded dog owners of the importance of cleaning up after their pets.
" As well as being unsightly and offensive, dog foul can also present a risk to public health,” said a Council spokesperson.
It is an offence not to clean up dog foul and anyone who fails to do so is liable to be issued with a £200 Fixed Penalty or a fine of up to £1000 upon prosecution.