During June and July, Norfolk Wildlife Trust will be carrying out a public consultation on proposed changes to access for dogs at Holme beaches.
The beaches at Holme are internationally important for their breeding and overwintering birds. This includes breeding populations of ringed plover, little tern and oystercatcher, all species of conservation concern in the UK. In the autumn up to 50,000 knot use the area for feeding and resting.
Jonathan Preston, NWT Nature Conservation Manager, said: “Dog walking is a popular activity at Holme, and dog ownership has increased in recent years. We are expecting an increase in dog use of the site in the future and know that we must balance recreational use of Holme beaches and protecting the important wildlife that makes a home here.
“Without due care and attention, the presence of dogs on the beaches can result in destruction of nests, predation of young birds or eggs and disturbance to breeding and wintering birds.”
Norfolk Wildlife Trust confirms that responsible dog owners will continue to be welcome at Holme beaches and is keen to hear the views of local residents and beach visitors on their proposed plans.
The Wildlife Trust anticipate reviewing the consultation results from August, and sharing the outcome with local residents and visitors to Holme beaches later this year.
The consultation is now closed and we will be anaylsing and sharing the results with you soon.