Current update
Work is underway to deliver a new dog park in the open space bound by Nullarbor Avenue and Oodgeroo Avenue in Franklin. Construction is expected to take approximately 9 months and be complete in the summer of 2024-25 (weather permitting). More information below.
Page last reviewed 05 Apr 2024
Project description
Construction is underway on Franklin dog park.
The ACT Government is building a new fenced dog park in Franklin to provide more spaces for dog owners in Gungahlin to exercise and socialise their dogs off-leash. The new Franklin dog park will be located in the open space bound by Nullarbor Avenue and Oodgeroo Avenue.
Fenced dog exercise areas contribute to the effective management of dogs in public spaces by providing controlled space where dogs can freely exercise and play. They also assist in alleviating the pressure on shared recreational areas.
Key features
- 2,870m2 of recreational area.
- Welcoming ‘bark and play’ signage.
- Accessible loop path within the perimeter of the dog park.
- Gravel car park area with seven car spaces, including two accessible spaces, and four bike rails.
- 1.5 metre-high black chain link fence around the perimeter of the dog park.
- Area with picnic shelter, seating and drinking fountain.
- Dog agility area with some play elements including low and tall bar jumps, weave poles, pyramid ramp, hoop tunnels and log balance beams.
- Irrigated grass area for ball and frisbee play.
- Dog poo bag dispensers and bins.
- 48 new trees for canopy cover, a combination of native and deciduous species to offset the removal of three trees planted along the verge of Nullarbor Avenue.
Construction
Construction began in April 2024 and is expected to take approximately 9 months to complete (weather permitting). This includes time for the grass/landscaping to establish ahead of opening the park for use. During this time it is likely the community will notice very little work on site and only occasional visits by the contractor to tend to the landscaping.
Work will be carried out between the hours of 7 am and 5 pm Monday to Friday. If required, work may be undertaken on weekends between 8 am and 4 pm.
Construction activities will include:
- fencing of the worksite and installation of tree protection fencing
- small diggers and front loaders for importing and placing gravel for the carpark as well as soil, mulch, trees and other plantings
- demolition, excavation and transportation of materials using bob cats, excavators and small trucks
- concrete trucks for the installation of paths and furniture
- installation of new fencing, dog play elements and signage.
Engagement
In 2022 the community provided feedback on the concept plan which outlined the proposed mix and location of facilities at the new Franklin dog park. This included parking, access gates, paths, trees, water stations and waste bins as well as recreational infrastructure such as green spaces, shade structures and seating.
We heard 81% of respondents supported the draft design provided. There have been minor amendments made to the draft design including different types of plantings to provide a safer experience for dogs and modifications to the entry/exit of the carpark to not only improve access but to reduce the number of trees requiring removal.
During engagement there was feedback requesting separate, well-sized play areas (i.e. small and large spaces). Unfortunately, there are space constraints at this location which do not allow for two separate play areas. The dog park location was the only suitable site identified which met necessary criteria for a dog park.
Related links
Stay updated
If you’d like to stay updated on this project, bookmark this page or email us at communityengagement@act.gov.au to be included on any project updates.
