We, the undersigned, call on Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council to introduce a seasonal trial allowing restricted dog access to Aberavon Beach during the current summer exclusion period (1 May – 30 September).

We propose permitting dogs on the main beach:

Before 9:00am
After 6:00pm
This would provide a balanced approach that:

Maintains safe and clean conditions during peak daytime hours
Supports responsible dog owners
Aligns with practices successfully adopted by other UK coastal councils.

There’s also a growing concern locally that the designated dog-friendly areas can become unsuitable at times during the summer, with increased reports of fires, litter, broken glass, and late-night activity leaving parts of the beach less safe—not just for dogs, but for the wider community.

We recognise the importance of public safety, tourism, and environmental protection, and support appropriate measures including:-

• Continued enforcement of fouling and control regulations
• Clear signage and public guidance
  This proposal reflects a fair compromise that improves access without undermining the council’s objectives.

Allowing early morning and evening access could also encourage additional visitors to the Aberavon seafront during quieter hours, providing a boost to local businesses and the wider economy.

We ask the Council to review the current Public Spaces Protection Order and implement a pilot scheme to assess the effectiveness of timed access.