Central Coast Council invites community to comment on action plan for dogs in open spaces 

Central Coast Council is encouraging all community members, including those without dogs as pets, to have their say on the draft Dogs in Open Space Action Plan now on exhibition until 26th August.

The draft Action Plan allows the community to provide feedback on off-leash areas, with the aim to improve opportunity for dedicated dog exercise areas and open space that all community members can safely enjoy.

Council currently manages and maintains 61 off-leash dog areas including open space reserves, beaches and fenced off-leash areas. The draft Dogs In Open Space Action Plan proposes modifications to the boundary of ten off-leash areas, the decommissioning of six sites and the addition of thirteen additional off-leash areas.

While Council is proposing to close some off-leash areas, they plan to relocate and/or provide new open spaces where pets can enjoy some time off-leash, under the close supervision of their owner.

Over the past 18 months, Council has been consulting with the community on a range of topics including the Responsible Dog Ownership policy, Helen Reserve, Gorokan – dog park, and Our Coast, Our Waterways. During these conversations with the community, dogs, infrastructure and the environment were explored. Council has used the information collected to inform the development of the draft Dogs in Open Space Strategy.

As an LGA with high rates of dog ownership, Council appreciates their  community’s interest in the provision of infrastructure that supports responsible dog ownership. Council is now inviting the community to have their say.

Visit yourvoiceourcoast.com/dogs to view the draft Action Plan, interactive map and share your feedback.

Feedback accepted until Friday 26th August 2022.