As the number of dogs in Merri-bek has more than tripled in the past seven years, local officials are introducing new rules to manage the growing canine population and ensure everyone can enjoy the parks safely. The Merri-bek Council is rolling out a pilot program that aims to address the strain on shared parks and recreational areas, which have seen increasing pressure due to the rise in dog ownership.
Proposed Changes to Dog Walking Regulations
Under the new guidelines, dog owners could face stricter limitations on when and where they can exercise their dogs off-leash. While the council may introduce more off-leash areas at select locations, other parks may see more regulated zones. The changes are part of a broader effort to balance the needs of dog owners with the safety and comfort of all park users.
Pilot Program Launch
The new rules will be tested at nine parks across the city, including three in Brunswick, as part of a trial program. These measures are expected to be adopted by the end of this year, following community consultation and evaluation of the pilot program’s results.
The pilot will include a range of measures, such as expanding fenced dog parks, increasing on-leash areas, and restricting dogs from areas like children’s playgrounds during specific times. At parks like Gilpin Park in Brunswick, the fenced dog park will be temporarily expanded, and new on-leash zones will be introduced. Similarly, Fleming Park in Brunswick East will see changes aimed at limiting off-leash activities during organized sports events.
Community Feedback and Safety Concerns
The changes come in response to concerns raised during the development of the council’s open space strategy. Some community members have expressed concerns about safety around dogs, the need to separate dogs from sports activities, and the environmental impact of dogs on biodiversity and local waterways. The new rules also take into account the need for better signage, lighting, and facilities like dog waste bags.
Cathy Henderson, CEO of Merri-bek Council, emphasized the importance of finding a balance between the needs of dogs and their owners and the wider community. “We know that exercising your dog has positive social, mental, and physical benefits,” she said. “But we also know that some people in the community feel uncomfortable around dogs in open spaces.”
Looking Ahead
The council is committed to ensuring that parks remain accessible and safe for all users, including dogs, by implementing clear guidelines and promoting responsible dog ownership. Residents will have the opportunity to provide feedback on the proposed changes over the next six months, and the council plans to adopt the new rules in early 2026.
These changes reflect the ongoing effort to create spaces that are welcoming to everyone while accommodating the growing number of dog owners in the area.
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