City of Joondalup wants feedback on establishing fenced dog exercise area

THE City of Joondalup wants community feedback on the possible establishment of a fenced dog exercise area in one of its parks.

If supported, five parks have been identified as potential locations: Bramston Park in Burns Beach, Chichester Park in Woodvale, Elcar Park in Joondalup, Emerald Park in Edgewater and Melene Park in Duncraig.

Criteria includes parks that are a minimum of 3500m sq, with a minimum of 30m buffer from adjacent residences, and preferably with a toilet and car parking facilities.

In May 2017, the Joondalup council agreed to list the establishment of dedicated dog exercise park facilities in its five-year capital works program in 2018-19 and 2021-22.

Mayor Albert Jacob said the City had received several requests in recent years to establish this kind of facility.

“Other local government areas that have established dog exercise areas have reported they have been very successful and immensely popular facilities,” he said.

“Dog exercise areas have also provided an opportunity for community interaction and improved social contact that has health and mental benefits to individuals, whilst dogs are able to be socialise in a more controlled and safe environment.

“I encourage all members of the community, whether they own a dog or not, to have their say so the council can make an informed decision on the best location for the City’s first dog exercise area.”

Community consultation will run from November 26 to December 17.

This will include directly consulting with residents within a 350m of the five parks, representatives from clubs and community groups currently using the parks, schools with shared-use agreements and the local residents associations.

Submissions can be made at www.joondalup.wa.gov.au.

The results of the community consultation will be presented to the council at a future date to seek direction on progressing the project.