Footscray is growing rapidly, with more apartments, more residents and more people relying on shared public spaces for recreation, connection and community, especially local dog owners.

Many people in the area live in apartments or homes without large backyards, yet there are very limited off leash spaces nearby where dogs can safely run, exercise and socialise.

We’re calling on Maribyrnong City Council to establish a designated off leash dog area within Grimes Reserve.

Grimes Reserve is an ideal location because it:

• already contains large open and under-utilised grassed areas
• connects naturally to the Maribyrnong River walking trail
• sits close to high density residential neighbourhoods
• is already used regularly by local dog owners as a place of community connection

This is not about converting the entire reserve into a dog park.

It’s about creating a balanced and thoughtfully designed off leash section that supports:

• responsible dog ownership
• healthy outdoor activity for all
• community and neighbourhood connection
• better use of existing open space

Dog owners are an important part of the Footscray community and deserve safe, accessible spaces close to home.

Please sign this petition to support an off leash dog area around Grimes Reserve.

Photo credit to: https://cityofmari.wordpress.com/2014/10/03/picnic-season/