Tails wagging for St Albans dog park

A FENCED dog park will be built at Aldershot Reserve in St Albans Park giving local residents and their canines a designated location for play.

The dog park will feature separate areas for active and passive dogs, and include external and internal paths, landscaping, park furniture and stormwater drainage.

The project is a key element of the Aldershot Reserve Master Plan endorsed by the City of Greater Geelong in 2021.

The federal government has pledged $852,133 of funding towards the park via phase three of its Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) fund.

Deputy Prime Minister and Corio MP, Richard Marles said dog parks are a key part of the local community.

“The Albanese Government is thrilled to announce in partnership with the City of Greater Geelong that the local communities and their four-legged friends will be able to enjoy a new fenced dog park at Aldershot Reserve,” he said.

“Dog parks are a key part of local communities not only for pets but owners alike. We have a growing number across the community, and we look forward to seeing this recreated at St Albans Park.”

The fenced dog park was previously placed on hold via Council’s 2023-24 budget process due to rising construction costs, however, can now be immediately reinstated in the City’s capital works program.

Mayor Trent Sullivan thanked the federal government for its support.

“Aldershot Reserve is a place where many people like to exercise their dogs, and a fenced dog park was a frequent request during the development of the reserve master plan,” he said.

“We’ve seen the huge popularity of the fenced dog park in Belmont and we’re pleased to now deliver a facility for the community in Geelong’s eastern suburbs.”

Detailed design will begin this month on the new project, with works expected to begin in April.