The Kennel Club has welcomed the recent announcement by Cornwall Council that complex restrictions on dog walker access to its beaches will be overhauled this summer, following a wide-ranging consultation.

The new rules simplify and reduce the restrictions placed on dogs on beaches by only excluding dog walkers at certain times during the summer months.

Holly Conway, head of public affairs at the Kennel Club said: “We commend Cornwall Council for this refreshing example of a PSPO that takes into account the importance of beach access for dog owners to provide their dogs with the exercise and stimulation they need.

“We wish to thank all of the dog lovers who responded to the petition, making it the council’s largest ever consultation response with over 13,000 replies. As ever, impassioned responses like this from the dog owning community are crucial in ensuring that proposed PSPOs are sensitive to the unique needs of the dog owning community.”

At a recent meeting of Cornwall Council, Rob Nolan, cabinet member for neighbourhoods and public protection, decided that restrictions will be in place only in July and August, except on beaches with Blue Flag status where they will apply for four and a half months, from May 15 to September 30.

In both cases the ban will be in place for an hour longer, from 10am to 6pm.

Cllr Nolan's decision reverts back to the original officer recommendations, which followed a public consultation that received more than 13,000 responses - the highest number ever received by Cornwall Council.

The relaxation of previous beach bans in Cornwall has increased access to essential walking sites throughout the year. Additionally, the synchronisation of restrictions reduces confusion for locals and tourists alike.