2 May 2018
Gunnedah Shire Council is undertaking community consultation regarding a proposed location for an off-leash dog area.
Council’s Open Space Strategy has identified Athol Gallen Park, off Walter Rodd Street, as a suitable location due to its size and accessibility. The proposal includes fencing (1.2 metres high), seating, waste bins, a water point, concrete pathways and signage.
Gunnedah Shire Council’s Manager Public Facilities Geoff Phillips said Athol Gallen Park has the supporting infrastructure already in place, with carparks in both Walter Rodd Street and Winder Place, shaded trees and multiple access points for pedestrians and vehicles.
“Gunnedah currently has only one dog off-leash area, being the Woolshed Reserve in Maitland Street. This reserve is unfenced due to being in the floodplain. Feedback received by Council consistently calls for a fenced area,” Mr Phillips said.
“Athol Gallen Park has access from Ashford’s Watercourse walk and cycle way, Winder Place, Walter Rodd Street, as well as Baxter Street. There is already parking for six to seven vehicles and sufficient shade.
“At this stage, we are just trying to gather people’s thoughts and views. We hope that, if approved, an off-leash area will encourage people to exercise their dogs there. It’s important to provide a secure recreational area for them to get outdoors and to encourage responsible pet ownership as well.”
Council has developed a survey to seek feedback from residents of the Gunnedah Shire, on the proposed location. All data and comments from the survey will be reviewed and a report will be presented to Council for consideration.
The Athol Gallen Park - Dog off-leash area (Gunnedah) survey can be accessed online or a hard copy can be obtained from Gunnedah Shire Council’s Administration Building in Elgin Street. The survey must be submitted by 5.00pm on Thursday, 31 May 2018.
Photo Caption: Gunnedah Shire Council’s Manager Public Facilities Geoff Phillips at Athol Gallen Park.
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Media Contact: Ashley Gardner 6740 2100.