A draft Plan of Management (PoM) proposing a dog off-leash area at the southern end of Mona Vale Beach has been released for public consultation, sparking community discussions about safety, environmental protection, and shared space usage.
Proposal Details and Community Consultation
The PoM will be on exhibition from Wednesday, 11 December 2024, and feedback will be open until Sunday, 9 February 2025.
The proposal would amend Pittwater Council’s 2005 Ocean Beaches Plan of Management to designate a portion of Mona Vale Beach for off-leash dog activities. The area, currently off-limits to dogs, would become a shared space if approved.
Council emphasised that this is more than a decision about dogs. Residents are encouraged to review the entire document, which outlines strategies to protect sensitive coastal vegetation, support recreational use, and manage environmental impacts. Feedback can be submitted via the website, email, or post. A pop-up event is scheduled for Sunday, 19 January 2025, at Village Park, Mona Vale, from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m.
Environmental and Safety Considerations
The southern Mona Vale Beach area is known for its restored coastal vegetation, which provides a habitat for birds and other wildlife. According to updated biodiversity mapping in the draft PoM, some of the area’s vegetation is home to threatened species.
Council acknowledged these ecological concerns and stated that the PoM aims to balance recreational access with environmental preservation.
Public safety has emerged as a significant concern in the off-leash debate. Recent statistics show that Northern Beaches is leading the state in dog attack incidents, a trend highlighted by residents during discussions about the proposal. Representatives reiterated that strict enforcement of rules and guidelines will accompany any changes to beach access for dogs.
Wider Implications and Comparisons
This draft PoM is part of a broader effort by the Northern Beaches Council to manage public spaces. A similar plan for Governor Phillip Park at Palm Beach, also proposing a dog off-leash trial, is under development and expected for public review in mid-2025. Both initiatives respond to ongoing calls for more dog-friendly areas but have drawn criticism for potential costs, safety risks, and environmental impact.
Some locals oppose the plan and have suggested alternatives, such as dedicated dog parks with water features, which have proven successful in Western Sydney. Advocates argue that designated off-leash areas on beaches provide much-needed space for exercise and recreation for both dogs and owners.
Feedback from the public exhibition period will be analysed, and a finalised PoM will be presented for approval. Until then, existing rules prohibiting dogs at Mona Vale Beach remain in place, with fines for non-compliance.
Published 24-Dec-2024
