Timed Dogs Off-leash at Mackenzies Bay
Update: At the 1 December Strategic Planning and Development Committee, this was considered by Council. The recommendation endorsed by Council is that Mackenzies Bay was not a suitable location for an off-leash dog area due to the potentially significant impacts on the environment, concerns over enforcement and that Council couldn't guarantee a safe environment for dogs, dog owners, and the rest of the community at that location. The consultation summary report, Council report and final Strategy are available to view here.
Dogs are prohibited at Mackenzies Bay, though for years it has been a popular location for locals to bring their off-leash dogs. As such, Council is considering allowing timed dogs off-leash in this location on a trial basis.
Before doing so, we want to understand the different community perspective regarding a timed off-leash dog area at Mackenzies Bay and how this could work.
Aspects for consideration include:
- Safety of dogs, dog owners and general public (click to view fact sheet)
- Benefits of off-leash dog areas (click to view fact sheet)
- Potential impacts of dogs on the local environment (click to view fact sheet)
- The location of existing and potential off-leash dog areas (click to view map)
- Supply of facilities such as paths, bins and dog bag dispensers in a front-line coastal area.
We want to know whether you would support a trial of timed off-leash dogs at Mackenzies Bay and if you have any particular ideas or concerns we should consider.
Your feedback will be reported to Council to determine whether a timed off-leash dog trial should proceed at Mackenzies Bay.
Note that the trial would only apply to companion animals as assistance animals are allowed in all public spaces.
Have Your Say
We want to hear your thoughts on a timed off-leash dog trial at Mackenzies Bay.
We also accept submissions in writing, you can email us on openspace@waverley.nsw.gov.au or address any correspondence to:
Recreation and Open Space Planner, Alexandra Jobin
Waverley Council
PO Box 9
Bondi Junction NSW 1355
Please note that all submissions will form part of Council’s public record and as such may be made publicly available. Your name and contact details will be kept confidential.