Council has received over 3,200 submissions to its Draft Dogs in Open Space Action Plan, with community consultation now closed.

Central Coast Council Director Environment and Planning, Alice Howe said Council would like to thank all community members who shared their valuable feedback.

“Council reviewed a strong community response to the Draft Plan and we now have a lot of feedback to analyse and consider,” Ms Howe said.

“This is not the last conversation that Council will have with our passionate community on this topic. Council will provide feedback on how your submissions have been considered and what changes are proposed to the Draft Plan in response to that feedback.

“Following detailed review of submissions there may also be a need to engage further with our community on particular elements of the Draft Plan. In the meantime, the current on-leash, off-leash, and dog-prohibited areas will continue to be in place.

“The Central Coast has one of the highest populations of companion dogs in New South Wales, and we know the community is very interested in the delivery of infrastructure and the provision of open space that support responsible pet ownership. This was further reinforced from the community feedback received on the Draft Plan.

“Our aim is to provide improved opportunity for dedicated off-leash dog exercise areas and open space that all community members can safely enjoy, while protecting and enhancing our natural environments.”

Council Administrator, Rik Hart said it is fantastic to see so many Central Coast community members share their thoughts on the Draft Plan.

“We know dogs in open spaces is a passionate topic for the local community, and it is great to hear the many varied views from community members across the region,” Mr Hart said.

“Council has a lot of work to do to strike the right balance which caters to the whole community and will continue to update our community with key outcomes.”

ENDS