City's four-legged residents to benefit from further off leash area improvements

Improvements to the popular off leash area located in Islington Park will soon get underway to increase safety for local pooches and enhance usability of the park. 

The planned work includes improvements to fencing, the addition of seating, shade, landscaping, dog drinking water facilities, garbage bins and new park signage. 

These upgrades were identified in the Dogs in Open Space Plan, a 10-year strategy for the provision, improvement and management of dog off leash areas throughout Newcastle.

City of Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said that the improvements will make visiting the off leash area in Islington Park a safer and more comfortable experience for pooches and their owners. 

“The people of Newcastle are passionate about their dogs, which is why the City is committed to improving our off leash areas, with Islington Park our next focus area. 

“With over 84,000 dogs registered in our City, it’s important that there are a variety of safe off leash options for our furry friends to run free and socialise with other pets. 

Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen said since adopting the Dogs in Open Space Plan in 2019, City of Newcastle has delivered a new popular fully fenced off leash area in North Lambton, and was looking at further opportunities to upgrade off leash areas. 

“In addition to the works planned for the Islington Park off leash area, we are currently undertaking planning work for a fully-fenced off leash area in Maryland,” Cr Clausen said. 

“We’re also exploring the potential for a fenced dog park in the Adamstown area.” 

The upgrade works in Islington Park are due for completion by June 2021. During construction the off leash area will be unavailable for use.

A full list of the City’s off leash areas is available by clicking here.