A DOG charity has raised serious concerns about plans to ban dogs from Canvey beaches.

Castle Point Council has launched a consultation to gauge residents’ thoughts on canines not being allowed on the area between Concord Beach and Thorney Bay during the summer.

However, the Dogs Trust said dogs should have a chance to enjoy public space too.

The charity is now urging residents to take part in the consultation to ensure everyone’s views are heard.

Lee Paris, Dogs Trust senior campaigns officer, said: “We know Canvey’s beaches to be popular, dog-friendly spots and would encourage residents to have their say through the council’s consultation to keep it that way.

“Dogs Trust is worried that dog owners could unknowingly risk fines and restrictions on where they can and can’t walk their dogs.

“What’s more, these changes could be based on just one or two comments from residents.

“Therefore, we are encouraging all dog owners to take part in the consultation to ensure that fair and proportionate orders are implemented.”

The charity spokesman said part of the commitment to having a dog is ensuring that they have the opportunity for plenty of exercise.

The spokesman added: “We believe that most owners are responsible and that they should continue to have fair access to public spaces across Canvey.”

A spokesman from Castle Point Council said: “The council is giving serious consideration to the introduction of a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) which would ban dogs from the beach area from Concord Beach to Thorney Bay during the summer period.

“However to help the council determine if this is necessary and proportionate to any dog related issues, we are undertaking an informal consultation to seek your views on the extent of the problem (if there is one) and how best to deal with it.

“Please note that there is already a borough-wide PSPO in place which makes it an offence not to clear up after your dog has fouled on any land which the public can access, with or without charge.”

To take part in the consultation, visit castlepoint.gov.uk