Unraveling the 'Dog Ban' Misunderstanding on Sefton Beaches

After some confusion caused by recent headlines, Sefton Council's Green Sefton service has been asked why dogs are 'banned' from going on Sefton's beaches.

In short, the answer is - they aren't!

Some clarification

Dogs are welcome on the Sefton coast, including on its beaches. That's true whether you visit Crosby, Ainsdale or Southport - all beaches which Green Sefton staff look after.

The Council is responsible for making sure that bathing water is safe, beaches are clean and the coast's status as a Site of Significant Scientific Interest (SSSI) is upheld.

That means that there are a few simple rules we ask beach visitors to follow, as you can see in the video below:

The so-called 'ban' explained

There are only two 'exclusion zones' for dogs on Sefton beaches. One is on Ainsdale beach and the other is in Southport.

Ainsdale:We ask that dogs are not taken into the area stretching 200m either side of the main beach entrance and to the tide line. Owners can park on the beach and then walk their dogs to one of the large areas outside of the exclusion zone.

Southport:Please keep dogs out of the beach area between the Pier and Pleasureland (about 555m) and to the tide line.

These steps are taken to help maintain bathing water quality, and only apply between May and September.

Take The Lead

If you own or walk dogs on the Sefton Coast, you'll find a lot of useful guidance here:www.sefton.gov.uk/take-the-lead

We're asking residents and visitors to 'Take The Lead' in helping us keep the coast safe and enjoyable for everyone.