HAMPSHIRE Wildlife Trust has retreated from its controversial hardline stance against dog walkers at a popular beauty spot.
Last October, the trust banned the walking of dogs without leads on St Catherines Hill, Winchester.
It was concerned that dogs might attack the unfenced flock of sheep that grazes the hill.
The ban sparked a massive protest from dog owners, who said that decades of freedom was being needlessly curtailed at the 120-acre reserve, a site of special scientific interest.
City MP Mark Oaten brokered a meeting at his offices last Friday between trust managers and campaigners.
The trust announced that it was easing the restrictions and would now allow dogs to roam freely if there were no sheep around.
However, they must be kept on a lead if sheep are present.
They must also be kept on leads during the bird-nesting season, from March to July.
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