Georges River Council endorsed the closure of the off-leash dog area at Merv Lynch Reserve, Beverly Hills at its Meeting on Monday 24 March 2025 following extensive consultation with the community.
The decision was made in response to community feedback which highlighted ongoing challenges with the site. The open feedback responses from the community reflected a range of perspectives, including concerns about how the space was being used and its impact on both dog park visitors and nearby residents.
While the off-leash area has been a valued space for many dog owners, Council has also received a significant number of reports about noise levels, park usage, and conflict between user groups. Managing these concerns has presented ongoing challenges for Council, including ensuring a safe and enjoyable environment.
Georges River Council Mayor Elise Borg said, "Council recognises the importance of off-leash areas for pet owners and their dogs, but we also need to ensure our public spaces meet the needs of all residents.
"Following community feedback and ongoing challenges, we believe this is the best course of action for Merv Lynch Reserve."
Council remains committed to providing accessible spaces for dog owners and their pets, with ten off-leash dog parks available across the Local Government Area.
