Dogs in Public Spaces Strategy Review
Sign up to join our workshop and help shape how dogs are managed in public spaces across the Blue Mountains
Our Dogs in Public Spaces Strategy was last reviewed in 2017. Since that time, community needs, park usage and best practices in dog management have evolved. We are
now reviewing the strategy to ensure it continues to:
- Balance the needs of dog owners and non-dog owners
- Provide safe, accessible and welcoming public spaces
- Protect our unique bushland and wildlife
- Support responsible dog ownership through education and compliance
One of the anticipated outcomes of the Dogs in Public Spaces Strategy will be the closure of some existing off-leash areas and the expansion or introduction of others, to ensure dog spaces are better located, safer, and more suitable for community use.
Your input will help shape how dogs are managed in public spaces across the Blue Mountains into the future.
Why are we reviewing the Plan?
- The review will help ensure the updated Plan continues to:
- Balance the needs of dog owners and non-dog owners
- Protect our unique bushland and wildlife
- Provide safe, accessible and welcoming public spaces
- Support responsible dog ownership through education and compliance
Have your say
We want to hear from a broad range of community members, including:
- People who love using off-leash dog areas
- Those who prefer to avoid dogs and these areas
- Sports clubs
- Recreational users of parks and public spaces
- Trail walkers and runners
- Parents
How to get involved
POP-UP EVENTS
Come chat with us at a local pop-up! No need to book or RSVP, simply turn up and share your thoughts.
Day 1 – Wednesday 12 November
- Katoomba Falls Reserve - 7.30 am – 9.30 am
- Katoomba Town Centre, The forecourt outside the Tibby Whelan Hall, 81-83 Katoomba St – 11 am – 2 pm
- Pitt Park, Wentworth Falls - 3 pm – 5 pm
Day 2 – Thursday 13 November
- South Lawson Dog Park - 7.30 am – 9.30 am
- Springwood Town Centre, Springwood Town Square, (also known as School of Arts Square) 186 Macquarie Rd, Springwood – 11 am – 2 pm
- Sun Valley Reserve, Sun Valley – 3 pm – 5 pm
WORKSHOPS
Join a small group discussion to explore the issues in more depth across the upper, mid or lower Blue Mountains, depending on where you live or spend your time.
We understand that not everyone feels comfortable around dogs, and that’s okay. One of the upcoming workshops will focus on hearing from those who have concerns about dogs in public spaces. We want to ensure all perspectives are represented so that the strategy reflects a balanced approach. If this sounds like you, please register for the separate workshop to take part and share your views.
Dates
- Mid Blue Mountains (Location TBC) - Thursday 4 December, 4.30 pm – 6.30 pm
- Upper Blue Mountains (Location TBC) - Monday 8 December, 5.30 pm – 7.30 pm
- Lower Blue Mountains (Location TBC) - Tuesday 9 December, 5.30 pm – 7.30 pm
- Separate workshop – Mid Blue Mountains (Location TBC) - Thursday 4 December, 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Expressions of interest
To register for any of these workshops, please complete an expression of interest (below), and we will be in touch with further information.
DELIBERATIVE FORUMS
In the new year, we will be hosting a series of two deliberative forums to further discuss topics raised in the workshops and pop-ups.
To register for these forums, please fill in this expression of interest form and we will be in touch with further information.
OTHER
If you are unable to attend our in-person engagement options and would like to share feedback please do so below.
If you would like assistance to have your say or be involved, please contact Council on 02 4723 5000 or council@bmcc.nsw.gov.au and we will facilitate this.
