The newly-fenced leash-free dog area at Manning Park is a winner for Cessnock canines and their owners.
Since the completion of work, residents and pooches alike can now enjoy a new shelter at the Blackwood Avenue facility, accessible picnic setting, water fountain, bins, landscaping and pathway connections.
The project forms part of Cessnock City Council’s Off Leash Dog Exercise Area Plan, which was adopted in September 2021.
It aims to ensure dogs are able to play, exercise and socialise with their owners in a safe and accessible way in designated areas across the LGA.
Cessnock City mayor Jay Suvaal said he was looking forward to seeing locals and their canines enjoying the latest facility.
“This is the first fully-fenced dog area in the Cessnock LGA,” he explained.
“Dogs are such an important part of many families in our community and fenced, off-leash areas allow them to exercise and socialise in a safe environment.”
Along with Manning Park, council provides a number of off-leash areas across the LGA, including Greta Central Park, Hall Park in Cessnock, Miller Park in Branxton, Stanford Merthyr Park and Varty Park in Weston.
The latest project was made possible with a $140,000 grant under the NSW Government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole said the initiative helped to enrich the lives of residents in regional areas.
“The Stronger Country Communities Fund is already making a real difference to communities, with work on more than 2,000 projects already underway in every local government area (LGA) across the state,” he stated.
“The NSW Government is investing record amounts to deliver the infrastructure needed to stimulate regional economies.
“But, we are also backing grassroots projects that make a positive difference to everyday life.”
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