Sparrovale dog park input wanted

Residents in Greater Geelong’s fastest growing area will have access to a new fenced dog park as of next year.

Geelong council will build the new dog park on the residential edge of Sparrovale Reserve in Armstrong Creek in 2025, jointly funded by $550,000 from the state government and $100,000 from the City of Greater Geelong (CoGG).

The park will give local dog owners a place to exercise their pets, as dogs are prohibited from the Sparrovale Wetlands and will be “larger in scale but more ‘natural’ looking” than Geelong’s other dog parks, according to a CoGG statement.

Mayor Trent Sullivan said the park would protect wildlife in the wetlands by providing dogs and their owners with a designated recreational space.

“We’ve seen how popular fenced dog parks have become and this facility will be an important addition to the Armstrong Creek growth area,” Cr Sullivan said.

“I’m sure it will be very well used, and it will also help protect the Sparrovale Wetlands next door by giving dogs a great place to exercise away from the environmentally sensitive parts of the reserve where they’re not allowed.”

State Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney, welcomed the initiative, saying it was “great news for our community of dog lovers, who will soon have a dedicated space at Sparrovale Reserve to exercise their pets and connect with fellow pet owners”.

“This initiative will create a safe and enjoyable environment for our furry friends to play and socialise, while also strengthening the bonds within our community,” Ms Tierney said.

“I look forward to the positive impact this park will have on both our pets and the broader community.”

Residents can visit yoursay.geelongaustralia.com.au/sdp to view a concept plan of the park and submit feedback from now until Monday, September 16.