Noranda: Residents block proposed specialist dog park at Strutt Way Reserve

DOZENS of Noranda residents have won a battle to prevent the construction of a fenced specialist dog park at Strutt Way Reserve.

At last night’s council meeting, about 20 residents cheered in joy when the council unanimously supported Cr Stephanie Gray’s motion to rescind a May 2018 decision to develop costings and design for a separated dog park.

The rescinded plan included fencing, dog agility equipment, water fountains and shade.

The original decision was part of the City’s dog exercise area review, where several parks were found to be suitable to build a fenced dog exercise area.The park borders Strutt Way, Armstrong Way, Stirling Court and Stewart Way.

According to an officer’s report, no consultation had been conducted and the City had not yet developed costs and designs as investigations were scheduled to start at the end of this month.

Cr Gray, who declared an impartial interest for living on the street, said the Reserve was in a very quiet residential area which was safe for children, families and pets.

“Having spoken on a great number of occasions with a variety of residents in the area, the overwhelming opinion is that Strutt Way Reserve is not an appropriate location for a fenced dog exercise area,” she said.

“Given this feedback, I and other councillors have received, I firmly believe it will be financially prudent to call off any further investigation, saving officers’ time and the City’s money on a project which is not supported by the local residents.”

Cr Michelle Sutherland said most Strutt Way residents and those in the surrounding area were in opposition to a dog park.

“People feel that the park is too small, a lot of young people are coming back now because it has a good playground area and basketball courts and that is what the residents want,” she said.