Dogs on the Beach
This is about more than dogs on the beach. It is about the special relationship between humans and their dogs and our rights to free roam on the shore. Yes, the council can legally stop us from going on the beach during the summer and yes dog poo is bad. We almost had a solution three years ago when 58% supported it. This time the consultation didn’t even mention a dog beach. How is a that a fair consultation?
However. Who’s beach is it? It’s everyone’s. I’d include all plants and animals in that too. The environment needs to be respected and protected. A minority, according to the council’s own consultations are stopping the rest of us using this beautiful and free amenity. We have even proposed a compromise, only a small part of the 7 mile stretch? The answer was still no.
I’ve been fighting this for years, and I’ll keep fighting it. It has only been in place 15 years. Early humans were in Kent on the Thames Estuary over half million years ago.
The PSPO (Public Space Protection Order) has been renewed for another 3 years. It is disproportionate and unreasonable, but we can’t afford to bring it to court and petitions, consultations and protests have done nothing. I think the council sees our beach as an asset to sell to visitors on behalf of a narrow about of businesses in the area. I’m all for businesses and making a living, but some balance is needed. Dare I say it, a more Liberal and Democratic balance…
You can join the Southend Dog Beach Campaign here. Remember, every dog has it’s day.