Hastings Borough Council has announced the enforcement of a revised dog control public space protection order (PSPO), introducing stricter regulations for dog owners in Hastings and St Leonards. The updated order, effective immediately, aims to ensure public safety and cleanliness across the borough’s beaches, parks, and green spaces.
Under the new PSPO, dog owners are required to keep their pets on a leash along the entire promenade. Additionally, a single person is now limited to walking a maximum of six dogs at any given time. A significant emphasis has been placed on cleanliness, with the mandate that all dog fouling must be promptly picked up and disposed of in designated bins.
Violators of these rules face stringent penalties, including on-the-spot fines of up to £100 or, in severe cases, prosecution with fines reaching £1,000.
The council has designated two dog exclusion zones on the beach during the summer months, from 1 April to 30 September. These zones include the area east of Rock-a-Nore to the east side of Hastings Pier and the stretch from the west end of Bottle Alley to opposite the Royal Victoria Hotel. Outside these zones and during the winter period, dogs are permitted on the beach, with or without a lead, in specified areas.
In addition to beach regulations, the PSPO outlines restrictions in various green spaces across Hastings. Dogs are now prohibited from entering any water bodies in Alexandra Park or St Leonards Gardens and are not allowed in children’s play areas, multi-use games areas, skate parks, tennis courts, or bowls greens. The council advises dog owners to observe park signage for specific lead requirements.
To inform the public of these new regulations, Hastings Borough Council is installing new signage across affected areas. Cllr Glenn Haffenden, lead councillor for community safety, emphasized the importance of these updates, noting recent dog-related incidents that prompted the need for clearer guidelines. “These restrictions are in place to ensure the safety and comfort of all residents and visitors to Hastings and St Leonards,” said Cllr Haffenden. He also encouraged community feedback on the PSPO’s effectiveness and the behavior of dogs in public spaces.
