Council has no plans to change the current usage arrangements of the reserve as part of this project, open space will be retained for community use and off leash dog access.

Council is currently developing Dog Off Leash Strategic Guidelines which will outline Council position on the provision, distribution, design and management of dog facilities in public open spaces. This work would include a review of all our off-leash dog parks and current restrictions. Consultation on these guidelines will be open on Friday 8 December 2022. Visit www.haveyoursay.portphillip.vic.gov.au to get involved in the conversation.

Areas of the park will need to be closed while works are underway. Where safe to do so, and in consultation with the future works contractor Council will to provide access to areas in the park.

The closest dog off lead areas are Gasworks Arts Park and Port Melbourne Beach (between Port Melbourne Yacht Club and Lagoon Pier), these will be open for off leash dog walking during the construction period.

We have heard the community concern around this issue and are currently investigating other options for off leash dog walking (in addition Gasworks and Port Melbourne Beach) whilst construction takes place at Lagoon Reserve.

The upgraded sports lights give Council the ability to zone and dim the lights to operate according to the oval use meaning much more flexibility of use. This project also includes an upgraded, safer and better lit path network within the reserve (designs will be finalised for this following feedback from the community) that will benefit dog owners and through traffic.

Summer use of the sporting facilities at Lagoon Reserve is already near capacity, there is no significant change expected during this season.

With the installation of lighting there is of course likely to be an increase in demand for training during the winter months.

Council officers will work to communicate expected use of the reserve during the project.

Our hope is that the proposed upgrades will benefit all park users. In addition to the pavilion, cricket nets and sports light upgrade a new BBQ area with picnic facilities, safer and better lit pathways, landscaping and upgraded public toilets are part of the project scope. As part of the oval reconstruction the irrigation system will be upgraded and a drainage network installed which will help provide a better surface for all users of the park including dogs and dog owners.

Many of Council’s sports facilities are at capacity, with significant amounts of use from clubs and the local community including schools, fitness providers and casual community use. As a result, sports grounds around Port Phillip suffer from significant wear and tear with unsuitable or unsafe conditions, and a poor experience for all users. We know that as our population grows and sports become more popular, we need to make sure we take care of our sports grounds to make sure they’re fit for use by everyone. That’s why we’re upgrading the surface at Lagoon Reserve.

If there are any other areas of the park you would like investigated that would improve the park overall please use the free text response space in the survey to provide your feedback.