Residents and their furry friends are set to enjoy some off-leash fun, with 2 new fenced dog parks due for completion in coming weeks.
The 2 new dog parks are at Bray Park Reserve, corner of Tree Street and Kyogle Road, Bray Park (Murwillumbah) and at John Baker Reserve, Darlington Drive, Banora Point.
Council engaged the local community to develop the Open Space Strategy (2019–2029), and the need for fenced off-leash dog parks was flagged as a key priority for the Tweed.
The community was consulted regarding the design of the dog parks and more than 200 residents provided their feedback.
Council's Acting Manager Parks and Active Communities Murray Smith said he was pleased to finally see these long-awaited fenced dog parks come to fruition.
"We know the community has been wanting fenced areas to walk their dogs for a long time and we are thrilled they are set to open and ready to be enjoyed," Mr Smith said.
"There are several positive benefits to off-leash dog parks including providing an opportunity for dogs to exercise, socialise with other dogs, enjoy the fresh air, practice training techniques, play games and generally race around and burn off energy.
"For dogs, it also provides essential mental stimulation and prevention of problem behaviours such as destructiveness or excessive barking. And it's fun for dog owners to meet other owners, swap tips and even make new friends.
"At the fenced off-leash dog park in Banora Point we are also trialling the separation of sections of the park for smaller and larger dogs which is something the community requested."
Construction of the fenced off-leash dog park at Bray Park has been completed and is open to the public from this week. It features one fenced area and includes agility equipment, pathways, a drinking fountain with dog bowl, waste bags and bin, seating and shelter, new signage and on-street car parking.
Facilities at the Banora Point dog park include dog agility equipment, pathways, drinking fountains with dog bowls, waste bags and bins, seating and shelters, new signage and off-street car parking. Work on this park is expected to be completed in coming days – weather permitting – and is expected to open to the public in early February.
An additional 30 trees will also be planted for natural shade inside the fenced areas at the Banora Point facility in late February 2022.
Signage will be located at key entrance points outlining users' responsibilities and reinforcing expected behaviour.
The following rules apply while in designated off-leash areas:
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Dog owners must keep their dog(s) under effective control at all times.
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Dogs must be under the continuous supervision of a competent person who is able to control the animal.
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Dog owners must have a leash with them at all times.
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Dogs must be on-leash at all times in public areas outside of designated off-leash areas.
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Immediately remove and dispose of your dog's poo in the bins provided.
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Prevent your dog(s) from demonstrating harassing, threatening or attacking behaviour.
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Dogs that are declared dangerous, menacing or restricted breeds are not permitted to use designated off-leash areas.
