Georges River Council endorsed the upgrade of the off-leash dog area at Hogben Park, Kogarah at its meeting on Monday 24 March 2025 after multiple rounds of community consultation.
It was recommended that the existing off-leash dog area at Hogben Park, Kogarah to be upgraded according to Option B, presented in the Council Report, that includes new fencing with airlock gates, seating, bin and dog bag dispenser, and dog agility equipment.
The first round of consultation was conducted from 4 to 29 September 2024, gathering feedback on concept designs relating to each location. Engagement methods included resident notification letters, onsite signage, and social media posts directing the community to the Council's YourSay page. The consultation results showed varying levels of participation across locations, with notable feedback leading to adjustments in the proposed designs. There were 13 contributors and 14 submissions in this first consultation round.
A second round of consultation took place from 3 December 2024 to 3 February 2025, extended by three weeks due to increased community engagement. This round sought further feedback on all designs, with the results indicating strong community involvement and valuable insights for finalising the project plans. There were 41 contributors and 40 submissions in this second consultation.
The Hogben Park Masterplan was a reference point for the consultation. The Masterplan designs include an open space plaza with skate park and other youth focused recreational opportunities, as well as an amphitheatre, night-lit pedestrian pathway and toilet block.
While a fenced off-leash dog area was not in the initial Masterplan, it was born out of community need. The placement of a fenced off-leash area has been considered with all elements of the Masterplan design.
The aim of the Masterplan ensures Hogben Park continues to cater for a wide variety of ages and community groups. This is done by planning for a future uplift of the park to be inclusive and provides flexible recreational facilities.
Feedback also showed that 78 per cent of respondents preferred Option B, the larger of the proposed designs. This option provides a balance between dog park users and other recreational users of the open space. This option also proposes the surrounding park to become a dog on-leash park with a 10-metre exclusion area around the playground.
Georges River Council Mayor, Elise Borg said, "Hogben Park is a cherished space for many in our community. By choosing Option B, we are ensuring that it remains a welcoming and inclusive area for everyone, from dog owners, community groups, youth, to families and fitness enthusiasts.
"The community consultation process has guided us to the best possible outcome. Option B will provide the necessary improvements to Hogben Park's off-leash dog area, benefiting all who use this wonderful park."
At the Council Meeting, the concerns over drainage at the proposed area were voiced. Council will address the drainage issues as part of the upgrade works.
Council has ten off leash dog parks located across the Georges River Area where dog owners have access to space for their dogs to run, exercise and socialise leash-free with other dogs and visitors at these parks.
