Westward Ho! beach dog restrictions return for the summer season

Dogs will only be allowed on parts of Westward Ho! beach from May 1 as restrictions return for the summer season.

Torridge District Council has confirmed it will once again limit where dogs can go on the beach between May and September 30. They must also be kept on leads on the promenade.

The council said this created zoned usage areas on the beach to ensure that different groups engaged in varying activities can all safely access and enjoy the popular award-winning resort.

Above: A map showing where dogs can and cannot be walked at Westward Ho! while seasonal restrictions are in  place. Credit: TDC

It also helps the authority to meet the criteria for the annually assessed Blue Flag Award, which is highly prized and important to bathers and the local tourist industry.

The rules will be the same as in previous years and dogs will be allowed at the north end of the beach between Sandymere Bridge and the Taw/Torridge estuary.

Dogs will be prohibited to the south of Sandymere Bridge and will need to be kept on a lead on the promenade.

Fixed penalties of £100 to be issued in cases where dog owners fail to comply with the restriction, which the council said would be clearly signposted.

It said overwintering adding birds at the north end of the beach will have moved on by the time the restrictions start, making it a good area to exercise dogs.

People and their canine companions can also walk the many coast paths in the area, but dog walkers should still be wary as there are many lambs, baby chicks and rabbits on Northam Burrows at this time of year, so even well-trained dogs should be kept on a lead when leaving the beach to avoid any harm or attacks on wildlife.

Burrows lead ranger Mike Day said: “The dog restriction at Westward Ho! helps us to provide both dog free and dog friendly areas on the beach. Not only is this an important part of the Blue Flag criteria, it also means that dog lovers and those not so keen on man's best friend can all enjoy this wonderful place at the same time.

“We recognise what an incredible place Westward Ho! is and we want as many people as possible to enjoy it. Please help us during this busy period by observing the signs and restrictions.”