Leeton Shire Council has endorsed Enticknap Park as the preferred location for a replacement off-leash dog park at its September Ordinary Council Meeting, which was attended by a full galley of dog-park users.
During Council's consideration of the project, councillors sought assurance that nearby residents and regular dog park users would be actively consulted throughout the planning and delivery process. Council resolved that community engagement would form a key part of the project's next phase, ensuring stakeholders have opportunity to provide feedback as plans are developed.
The new facility will replace the dog park at Brobenah Road, which is earmarked for a future affordable housing development. Council has committed to having a replacement dog park operating before the existing facility closes.
Direct consultation with users of the current dog park helped identify four sites for broader community feedback: Enticknap Park, Racecourse Reserve, Mark Taylor Oval and Waipukurau Park. The August survey received 205 responses from 190 contributors.
Racecourse Reserve attracted the most support in the survey, with 57 responses, followed closely by Enticknap Park with 51. Council also considered written submissions from Racing NSW Country, the Leeton Jockey Club and members of the cricket community.
Mayor Cr George Weston said Council had weighed community preferences against the suitability and cost of each site. "Racecourse Reserve was the most popular survey choice, and we recognise that. However, its proximity to racecourse activities raised significant concerns, and establishing a dog park there would cost considerably more than the approved budget," Cr Weston said.
"Mark Taylor Oval raised concerns about conflicts with cricket, while Waipukurau Park's proximity to a preschool and daycare centre was a concern for some respondents. Enticknap Park provides an accessible, shaded site that Council considers the most practical choice overall."
Enticknap Park has established grass and trees, is close to the town centre and connects to the shared path network. Council has allocated $100,000 in its 2026/27 budget for the replacement facility.
Staff will now prepare a detailed design and costings. Traffic and parking concerns raised during consultation will be considered as this work progresses.
A further report will come to Council before the project is approved for implementation.
"Thank you to everyone who shared their views. That feedback helped Council make this decision and will continue to guide the design," Cr Weston said.
The community can stay up to date with the project through the dog park project page at haveyoursay.leeton.nsw.gov.au.
