Fencing consultation at local Black Hill park

Consultation has commenced at the Walter Jones Memorial Park to determine the future of fencing at the open space located on the corner of Havelock Street and Napier Street in Black Hill.  

The neighbourhood park offers a small open space area, small playground, paths and seating which is regularly used by local families.  

To ensure the park is safe for all users, the survey will ask questions surrounding the fencing, specifically the style of fencing currently at the park.  

The fencing currently erected includes mesh inserts, which can act as a barrier between the open space and the surrounding roads.  

Some members of the community have raised concerns about the park being used by people as an off-lead area for their dog, as the fence is a secure barrier to the roads.

As the park is not an off-lead area, the consultation will determine whether the mesh component of the fencing is removed or remains.  

City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Des Hudson said neighbourhood parks are important outdoor spaces for all residents.  

“We urge the community if they use this local park, to complete the short survey to let us know how they use the space” he said.  

“Community feedback will ensure we make the best decision for all users of the Walter Jones Memorial Park.”  

A map of the park, outlining the section of fencing that would be impacted can be found on the City of Ballarat’s MySay page, as well as a survey residents can fill out. The survey can also be accessed by using the QR codes at the park.

The City of Ballarat will also host two drop-in sessions at the park, where residents can ask questions and submit their feedback.  

• Wednesday, 28 June 2023 from 10am – 11am.
• Friday, 7 July 2023 from 4pm – 5pm.

There are many off-lead and designated dog parks in Ballarat, and they can be viewed on the City of Ballarat’s website.

Your dog must always be kept on a lead, unless you are in an space clearly signed as a “Designated Off Leash Area”.  

Dogs can be exercised off a lead in many reserves and parks, but they must remain under control and be continually supervised and under effective control.