Dog ban plan put on hold after protests

Last week the authority approved proposals to keep animals off the sands between Harrowside and South Pier from May to the end of September.

A similar order was proposed for Bispham and signs were put up in error earlier this month.

However following a concerted campaign involving lobbying from local residents and the Kennel Club, the proposal has been shelved.

Deputy leader of Blackpool Council, Coun Gillian Campbell made it clear more work needed to be done before imposing restrictions at Bispham.

Coun Campbell said: “The sea water quality at Bispham is only classed as ‘sufficient’ and as such is at risk of failing stricter bathing water standards.

“We know that one of pollution sources in the water at Bispham comes from dogs, hence why we decided to take a close look at whether a dog beach ban on a small stretch of the beach was viable.

“Having looked at those consultation responses, it is clear that some Bispham residents feel strongly about this issue.

“More work with the community needs to be done to understand these concerns and as such aren’t looking to proceed with a dog ban on Bispham beach at this time.”

The Kennel Club, which organises top dog show Crufts, raised concerns about animal welfare after the ban was proposed.

A number of Bispham residents were also involved in fighting the ban including Laura Gilmour who set up a campaign on social media.

She said: Working with and encouraging dog walkers is the best way to deal with anti-social behaviour in a community.”