Swansea council mulls changes for dog walkers on city beach

Swansea council is planning to consult on a formal change to the rules that govern where and when dogs are allowed on the city’s beach.

Dogs have been banned on two sections of Swansea beach between 1 May and 30 September since 1991 and 1998, respectively.

The move follows a survey last summer, which more than 4,000 people responded to, with 77% of all respondents saying the exclusion zones should be revised, while 72% of respondents said the time period should change.

The consultation is set to ask people if they think the restricted area between the West Pier and Guildhall should be amended so dogs can walk on the section between the pier and The Observatory café-restaurant, and also allow greater access further west by derestricting the section between the slip at The West Cross Inn to the promenade opposite Mayals Road.

However, the proposals would not affect beaches in Gower as they have blue flag status, no section of Swansea beach has blue flag status.

Councillor David Hopkins, cabinet member for corporate service and performance, said: “The proposals enable dog owners to have more access to Swansea Bay during the summer and still provides dog-free sections for families who may feel uncomfortable around animals.

“We are fortunate enough to have such a wonderful and vast bay in the city where we can consider these sorts of arrangements and ensure everyone is happy and can visit the beach all year round.”