Backing for dog park and Central plan

New plans for dog owners and their canine companions have been unanimously approved by Moreton Bay City Council.

Councillors have backed officers’ recommendations for a new dog off-leash area in Margate and dog on-leash and prohibited areas at Moreton Bay Central.

Barry Bolton Park, beside Victoria Ave, is to get a dog off-leash area in the southern/central section to go with its playground and planned basketball court.

Cr Karl Winchester (Div 6) said at last week’s General Meeting: “I think this is a great opportunity. I think it will be welcomed in the area.”

Cr Brook Savige (Div 1) questioned the off-leash area’s “proximity to playground users, particularly those that use balls and children running around”.

But a council officer said topography and proximity of the car park were considerations in recommending the location.

With the lakes section of Moreton Bay Central - formerly the Mill site at Petrie - set to open mid this year, guidelines have been put forward for dog owners.

A report has been unanimously backed by councillors recommending setting up recreation zones “which specify dog on-leash areas and dog prohibited areas”.

This is to meet Council’s obligations to manage the impact on and protection of koalas at Morerton Bay Central, while providing a “recreation area for the community”.

Graphics show much of the huge site to be dog prohibited, except a large area beside the university and railway line as well as an access path towards Dohles Rocks Rd.

Cr Jim Moloney (Div 8) said he is “very supportive of this step. It is critical.”