After 100 years, this beach is banning traditional donkey rides

Donkey rides along the coast, coupled with salty fish and chips and sticky candyfloss, are a fond childhood memory for many of us. So it might come as a shock that this beloved, century-old tradition is coming to an end for one stretch of beach in south Wales.

At Coney Beach, Porthcawl, donkey rides will no longer be allowed to take place. Bridgend Council has introduced a ban on all animals on the beach between May 1 and September 30, effectively ruling out any chance of a license for seasonal donkey or pony rides during the summer months.

For some local residents, this comes as good news. ‘It’s an outmoded tradition with donkeys exploited to stand out in the sun,’ said one local resident. Summer months can be harsh on pooches and donkeys alike, so it’s pretty understandable.

The ban is part of the wider Porthcawl Waterfront Regeneration Scheme, which has already seen the closure of the beloved Coney Island Amusement Park in October, which operated for 107 years. In its place will stand 1,100 new homes and expanded green spaces, including a revamped Griffin Park, a 3.7-acre waterfront green space set to anchor the town’s new look. 

The restrictions cover Coney Beach, Rest Bay, Town Beach and Trecco Bay. Newton Beach, Sker Beach and Pink Bay remain animal-friendly year-round.

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