The ban on dogs on the main beach in Weymouth has been extended in 2016 from May 1st-Sept 30th to Good Friday - Oct 31st despite 63% of the public that responded to a Council consultation asking for it to remain the same.

The new extended ban has seen a drop in visitors to the beach and a loss in trade for cafes and kiosks along the seafront.

The Blue flag status of the beach is not affected as water testing does not take place outside the bathing season and other beaches locally such as Poole have only a shorter summer time ban and retain their Blue flag status.

The danger to children is no greater on the beach than in the towns parks and open spaces where dogs are permitted all year long.