FAQs
Why was this site chosen for a new dog off-leash area?
In 2022, Council investigated options to provide additional dog off-leash facilities across the Sutherland Shire.
Council consulted the community about potential locations for new dog parks. We received a lot of interest from the community and there was majority support for the various locations proposed.
Alcheringa Reserve was one of four suitable locations put forward for the priority service area of Caringbah/Lilli Pilli and overall, it received the most support from the community. At the December 2022 Council meeting, the elected Councillors supported a dog off-leash park at Alcheringa Reserve to service the area.
What are the minimum standards of service that Council provides for dog exercise facilities?
The ‘Service Standard’ for off-leash parks in Sutherland Shire are summarised in the table below. This standard is outlined in Council’s Open Space Strategy and Implementation Plan which considers emerging trends, challenges and opportunities as Council works in partnership with the community to plan for the future of open spaces.
What existing off-leash dog areas are there in the Sutherland Shire?
Council currently provides six off-leash dog areas designed to meet the needs of both dogs and their owners. These are located at:
Recreation Drive, Barden Ridge
Tivoli Esplanade, Como
Helena St, Kirrawee
312 Prince Charles Parade, Kurnell
1R Brighton Street, Bundeena
2 Mitchell Road, Cronulla
See Council’s website for more information about these facilities.
A new off-leash facility is currently under construction at Heathcote Oval and is expected to be open in July 2023. Find out more on our website.
Where will the new off-leash dog park be located within Alcheringa Reserve?
The fenced dog park will be approximately 7000m2 in area and located away from environmentally sensitive areas, the existing playground, scout hall and set back from neighbouring residences. See attached aerial showing the area within which the dog park will be located.
When will the dog park at Alcheringa Reserve be constructed?
Following community consultation, Council will design the new off-leash facility taking into consideration the feedback provided. It is expected that construction will start on the dog park in early 2024 and be opened in mid 2024.
Are there plans for other dog off-leash facilities and where will they be located? When will they be constructed?
Yes, as part of the Council decision to support the dog park at Alcheringa Reserve, additional off-leash facilities were supported at Taren Point M6 Corridor, Akuna Avenue Oval, Bangor and Friendship Place Reserve, Illawong. Further consultation will be carried out with the community as we develop the designs for these facilities. Construction of the new dog parks will be staged over the next 1-5 years, subject to available funding.