Should dogs be banned from Troon’s beach?
8 September
Should dogs be banned from Troon’s beach?
That’s the question being asked by South Ayrshire Council just now as they carry out their Dog Fouling Survey.
There’s no doubt that doggy dirt is unpleasant and unhealthy, and generates one of the highest levels of complaints received by the Council.
But plenty of dog owners are responsible, and scoop their pet’s poop to dispose of properly. Those who don’t can be hit with a £40 spot penalty or even referred to the procurator fiscal.
The council has issued its Dog Walkers’ Charter, which sets out the responsibilities of dog owners and walkers. It also pledges to provide free dog bags, adequate red and black dog bins, and signs to remind owners not to let their dogs foul.
The next stage, it says, is to consult on a possible ban in school grounds, children's play areas, sports and playing fields, cemeteries, golf courses and designated bathing beaches. That survey is here.
So what do you think? Is a beach ban a good idea, or is it unfair on responsible walkers? Perhaps you think that a doggy ban in some of these places is the right thing to do, but that others are a step too far.
Please have your say below. We’ll make sure the Council is made aware of the opinions expressed here.
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