A trial change to dog exercise areas in Long Beach will proceed following a decision of Eurobodalla councillors on Tuesday.
Under the trial, dogs will remain prohibited on the beach east of the western end of Bay Road, while the area to the west will be changed from timeshare arrangements to 24-hour off-leash.
The trial will start this month and continue until Council completes a broader review of its Companion Animal Management Plan 2015-19, which details on and off-leash, timeshare and prohibited dog arrangements across Eurobodalla.
The trial followed a request from the Long Beach Community Association.
Mayor Liz Innes said the trial was a sensible compromise that recognised the work of the association.
“This clearly demonstrates Council is listening and responding to its community,” she said.
“This is a good opportunity to do a small trial and see what the results are.”
Council’s Divisional Manager Environment Services Deb Lenson said the Companion Animal Management Plan review would consider how to best balance the community’s competing interests.
“Council recognises the importance of providing areas for pet owners to readily exercise their pets and the need to take into account legislative requirements, public safety and environmental constraints,” she said.
Ms Lenson said further consultation for the review would begin this month.
“We’ll be seeking the community’s feedback on a suite of proposed changes to dog exercise areas across the shire that aim to reduce confusing timeshare arrangements and increase provision of off-leash and prohibited dog areas,” Ms Lenson said.
“We’ll also be seeking suggestions on how we can work with the community to improve responsible pet ownership.”
For more information keep an eye on Council’s website www.esc.nsw.gov.au, subscribe to Council’s monthly e-newsletter Council News or follow Eurobodalla Media Release
