The council sought the community’s views on proposed new arrangements for council-managed beaches and dog exercise areas throughout the shire as part of a review of its Companion Animal Management Plan.

Almost 2500 surveys were completed during April and Council also received 140 letters and emails.

The council’s divisional manager of environmental services, Deb Lenson, said the council was now analysing the feedback.

“We had an amazing response and we thank everyone who contributed,” she said.

“We will now revisit the maps with the consideration of the wider community’s feedback and views.”

Ms Lenson said the large response to the survey proved there was great interest in the issue – from dog exercise areas, and dog-poo bag dispensers to signage and compliance.

“People are very passionate about their own patch, and it’s important to remember that we will never be able to please everyone,” she said.

“We are already seeing trends through the surveys that show very differing views. For example, some people believe dogs should be allowed on all beaches at all times, others believe that dogs shouldn’t be allowed on any beach and then there’s those who understand that a mix is important and they are just as passionate.

“We need to try and find a balance that is acceptable to dog owners and non-dog owners, with consideration of the environment.”

The community will have another opportunity to comment on the draft plan when it goes on formal public exhibition later this year. Any feedback received during the public exhibition period will again be considered before the final plan is adopted by the council.

For more information about the project visit www.esc.nsw.gov.au and search for “dog exercise area review”.