I am a local resident of Hastings, deeply affected by the recent decision made by our council. Despite conducting a consultation, our voices were ignored and dogs were banned from all beaches near the Old Town, Hastings during the summer months. This decision has left many of us, without a beach to walk our beloved pets during these months.

The majority of us agreed that there needed to be some compromise but objected to the additional restrictions on the Stade Beach.  A working beach, where fishermen’s dogs are now considered as working dogs and free to roam without restrictions.

This is not just about dog walking; it's about preserving our community spirit and ensuring inclusivity for all residents.

Moreover, this ban has potential negative impacts on our local economy. Dog owners from other towns who would normally visit are now discouraged due to these restrictions. This could lead to decreased spending in local businesses that rely heavily on seasonal visitors.

Additionally, this ban forces locals like myself who live near the beach to drive if want to enjoy the beach as a family - an unnecessary contribution towards environmental pollution which contradicts with UK's commitment towards reducing carbon emissions and goes against our own councils objectives of making the best use of the seafront and promoting tourism.

We urge Hastings Council to reconsider their decision and allow dogs access to Stade Beach all year round while implementing reasonable rules that respect both dog owners and non-dog owners alike. Please sign this petition if you believe in a more inclusive Hastings where everyone - including our four-legged friends - can enjoy what our beautiful town has to offer.