Scarborough dog off-leash area now permanent

Dogs will permanently be allowed to roam free on a section of Queens Beach North at Scarborough thanks to a decision by Moreton Bay Regional Council.

The decision, just in time for Easter, ends four years of uncertainty and followed extensive consultation.

Almost 2500 people responded to a survey about whether a trial off-leash area should be made permanent.

Mayor Peter Flannery says the north section of Queens Beach North will be made a permanent Dog Off-Leash Area from April 1.

Growing demand

“The feedback we received provided hard evidence about the growing demand for off-leash areas on beaches within the region,” he says.

“However it also highlighted the legitimate concerns about a lack of animal control in this area, with negative noise and property impacts for nearby residents.

“To balance these two interests, a shorter 357m stretch of Queens Beach North will be designated as a permanent Dog Off-Leash Area (DOLA) for 24 hours, seven days a week.”

Zone slightly smaller

The new area spans from the rock groyne at the beach’s northern end, to three houses short of Griffith Rd at the south, in contrast with the trial area, which ended on the south side of Griffith Rd.

Mayor Flannery says Council wanted to ensure everyone had the opportunity to have their say so a decision could be made based on the needs of beachgoers and dog owners.

“While 77 percent of people who took part in the survey supported a DOLA, it was very clear in the feedback that there was also a significant need for more regulation."

More regulation

“To address those needs we have reduced the size of the area and extra signage will be installed to clearly advise the limits of the area and rules for appropriate use.”

Mayor Flannery says rangers will patrol the site and will have the power to issue infringement notices.

“Dog owners must maintain effective control of their pets at all times, even within the DOLA, and dogs must be leashed while walking from vehicle to the DOLA.

“This has been a great exercise for the Council to better understand the habits and needs of beachgoers and dog owners in our region.”

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