A SPOKESMAN for Chelmsford City Council said: "When the courtyard area was originally opened it was intended as a dog-free space for visitors and diners.
"The council accepts that this policy has not been rigorously enforced. However, the justification for returning to its original purpose is due to a number of issues over time which have involved dogs disrupting visitors in that area."
But despite the council's claims that the cafe has always had a dog-free policy, the Huttons Courtyard Cafe website clearly states that well-behaved dogs are welcome in the courtyard on a short lead.
The spokesman continued: "Dog owners are a valued group of park users and it is for this reason that we wanted to provide a specific additional new space with seating, where pets and their owners can enjoy the facilities.
"We will monitor usage of the new area to ensure high levels of customer service are maintained."
He added that the council has received a number of positive comments regarding the new arrangements from customers saying that they liked the fact that they could now walk through to the cafe area without being pestered by dogs.
