DOG owners could be unaware of plans for a year-round dog ban on part of a Poole beach – because they’re already being kept away by a seasonal ban.

That’s the fear of a dog owner as Poole council prepares to put up posters at Sandbanks, launching 28-days of public consultation over a proposal to impose a dog free zone on a small section of beach.

“Since dogs are banned on the beach at this time of year, this is a pretty pointless exercise if they want dog owners to be aware of the consultative process,” said dog owner Colin Lambert.

“Unless of course it is intended to only come to the attention of non-dog owners and therefore those supporting the ban?”

Cllr Don Collier, cabinet portfolio holder for the environment, Borough of Poole said: “Public consultation will begin soon and notices will be displayed along the promenade, as well as other suitable sites including Whitecliff recreation ground.

“Adverts will be placed in local newspapers to ensure that all residents are made aware of the proposal.”

Harry Alexander, local representative of the Open Spaces Society, has suggested a compromise to avoid dog walkers being “seriously inconvenienced”.

He says they should be allowed to cross the beach with their animals on leads.

“The reason for this recommendation, most importantly, is that where dogs are on leads there is less likelihood for them to disrupt other beach users, and also dogs under such control are less likely under the guidance of their owners to soil the beach.”

Cllr Collier pointed out that people could avoid the proposed dog free zone by walking along the prom with their pets on leads.

“We do not wish to discourage dog owners from enjoying the beach and councillors will also be talking to dog walking groups about the proposals, which only cover a very small section of the beach,” he said.