Wanneroo Council endorses dog park plan

WANNEROO is set to get a dog park next year following council approval to build it at Edgar Griffiths Park.

In his deputation before the council meeting, a nearby resident said he would support the proposal provided the City addressed water supply and parking issues.

In response to his concerns dust from the park could blow on to nearby properties, community and place director Debbie Terelinck said the City had identified an existing water allocation it could use to irrigate the park.

The resident said street parking was not permitted in Casuarina Way and cars parked on verges were already creating safety risks on Garden Park Drive.

Community facilities manager Shane Spinks said administration was developing parking options, which the council could consider in future budgets.

Mayor Tracey Roberts said the plan was to complete the dog park in April 2020, and to consider parking in the 2020-21 budget.

The council supported a recommendation to endorse the concept plan, which included agility equipment such as hurdles and a bridge as well as a sand play area, drinking fountain and seating.

Councillor Dot Newton successfully moved amendments to investigate parking options as part of the mid-year budget review and noting staff had confirmed provision of an irrigated turf area.

“I was concerned this would turn into a dust bowl,” Cr Newton said.

The $360,700 project will be partly funded by a $200,000 State Government grant provided for a dog park in Banksia Grove.

The City dropped plans to build it at Delamare Park last year after 61 per cent of responses received during public consultation opposed the proposal.

It then looked for alternative sites in the Central Ward and held a workshop with Banksia Grove Residents Association and dog owners to discuss options.

“Dog owners are prepared and do travel as far as Whiteman Park, Kingsway Regional Sporting Complex and designated dog beaches,” a council report said.

Edgar Griffiths Park was considered the most suitable site because it already had parking available and space to develop more, and would have a universal access toilet when the sports clubrooms construction finished later this year.

During public consultation on the Edgar Griffiths proposal, the City received 97 responses with 83 per cent supportive of having a dog park.