Armstrong Creek tapped for new dog park

THE Armstrong Creek community are set to receive a new dog park, state environment minister Steve Dimopoulous confirmed last week.

The new dog park forms part of a $20.8 million investment from the Victorian government to provide more green, open spaces to local communities for exercise and relaxation.

The $650,000 Armstrong Creek facility will be built on the residential edge of the Sparrovale Wetlands, with the City of Greater Geelong contributing $100,000 to the project.

The park will be purpose-built to meet the needs of the surrounding area and Geelong mayor Trent Sullivan said it would differ from the Belmont Dog Park.

“This site will be much larger, and the park will be designed to fit in with its rural surrounds,” mayor Sullivan said.

Due to its environmental significance, dogs will be unable to access the wetlands, so the park is intended to provide the area’s dog owners with an off-leash exercise space for their pets.

“We appreciate the Victorian government’s support for this facility, which is something the Armstrong Creek community has been asking for and will also help protect the adjoining wetlands by providing an appropriate, separate space for dogs,” mayor Sullivan said.

Community consultation into the design of the dog park will begin this year, with designated ball play areas, sand digging pits and agility equipment listed as some of the potential design inclusions.

“More dog parks across Victoria means more open spaces for families and their pets to exercise, play and enjoy, closer to home,” Mr Dimopoulous said.

Construction on the park will be carried out next year.