Jamberoo Poised for New Off-Leash Dog Park as Community Input Sought
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Jamberoo residents are one step closer to a dedicated off-leash dog park, with Kiama Council unanimously voting to put proposed options out for public exhibition. The initiative stems from years of advocacy and addresses the significant number of dog owners in the township, which is the second highest in the LGA.
Key Takeaways
- Five potential options for the dog park are being considered.
- The proposed location is on the corner of Gibson Crescent and Churchill Street.
- Community feedback will be crucial in deciding the final design.
A Growing Need For A Canine Community Space
Jamberoo has long been identified as a township with a high demand for a formalised dog space, being the only one in the area without an existing off-leash facility. Councillor Stuart Larkins highlighted this need, stating that the project has been "due to years of advocacy for a formalised appropriate dog space in Jamberoo, that has been without one for decades."
The chosen site at Gibson Crescent and Churchill Street is considered ideal as it is currently unused community land, avoiding impacts on sporting facilities or scarce cemetery land. This location was determined and consulted with the community as part of a broader strategy.
Options On The Table
Council is presenting five distinct options for the new dog park. Three of these propose a single, mixed-use park for all dogs. The remaining two options suggest the creation of two separate, fenced off-leash areas: one specifically for small dogs and another for larger breeds. Councillor Larkins expressed a personal preference for the separate park model, believing it would better serve the diverse needs of the canine community.
Funding And Next Steps
The project has received significant backing, with the council securing state funding of $42,600, later increased to $75,600 for a larger fenced area. The council will also contribute $70,013 towards the development. The state funding must be utilised by November 2026.
The five proposed options will now be available for public exhibition for a period of 28 days. Following this consultation period, a report will be presented back to the council for further consideration and a final decision.
Sources
- Jamberoo's new dog park: community to decide | Illawarra Mercury, Illawarra Mercury.
- Jamberoo's dog park debate at Kiama Council | Illawarra Mercury, Illawarra Mercury.