Council has developed a concept plan to transform Spring Road Park in Hampton East into a dedicated off leash park. The proposed design includes secure fencing, double‑gated entries, seating, dog‑safe planting, drinking water and clear etiquette signage to support a safe, enjoyable and well‑managed space for people and their pets.

The old playground equipment will be removed.

Spring Road Park isn’t being used to its full potential. Although it’s officially an on‑leash area, people already use it as an informal off‑leash space because it’s fenced.

The old playground is worn out and it will not be replaced. under Bayside’s Playground Improvement Plan. There are also two other playgrounds close by at Basterfield Park.

This makes Spring Road Park a great spot to create a properly designed, fully fenced off‑leash area that better meets local demand.

Hampton East is Bayside’s smallest suburb but one of its most densely populated, with over 5,000 residents in just 1.44 km² and population projected to grow by 34% by 2036.

Bayside has a very high level of dog ownership, with around 13,000 dogs registered and residing in around 1 in 3 households.

As density increases, high‑quality open space becomes more important for social connection, recreation and wellbeing.

The proposed upgrade features:

* Secure perimeter fencing

* Double‑gated entries

* Dog drinking bowl(s) with taps

* Seating

* Waste/disposal bins

* Expanded native and indigenous planting

* Clear signage outlining etiquette and responsible behaviours

At this stage, the concept plan does not include may include agility or training equipment, due to the small 2,700m2 area of the park.

However, Council may consider installing basic agility or training equipment should this be strongly supported through community consultation.

There are already significant native trees at the park, which provide plenty of shade. There are no plans to remove any significant trees or vegetation unless necessary for safety reasons.

Additional vegetation will be planted using safe, dog‑appropriate native and indigenous species, including shrubs, grasses and shade trees. These plantings are intended to:

* Improve environmental quality

* Reduce dust

* Provide shade and texture

* Contribute to local biodiversity

The design aims to minimise impacts through:

• Thoughtful placement of infrastructure
• Landscaping for improve visibility and reduce noise spill
• Clear etiquette signage
• No lighting to promote use during daylight hours only.

Community feedback will also help identify any additional considerations and opportunities.

New or upgraded facilities can experience a short‑term increase in visitation, including more foot traffic or vehicles. However, visitation usually stabilises after several months.

There is no lighting currently within this park. No lighting is proposed to be installed.

If Council approves the works, the park will need to close temporarily for safety while construction is underway. We’ll give plenty of notice before this happens, and updates will be shared through signage, emails and the project webpage.

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The design focuses on enhancing the park for off leash exercise and training while maintaining green character. Existing trees will be protected, and new planting enhance user experience.

No changes to parking or traffic are currently proposed. Visitor patterns will be monitored and additional measures considered if required.

Safety measures include:

• Perimeter fencing and double‑gates
• Good sightlines
• Clear rules signage
• Well‑placed seating and resting points

Owners must maintain effective control of their dogs at all times.

You can:

• Complete the online survey
• Upload a written submission
• Speak to the project team at pop‑up sessions

Yes. All feedback is reviewed and will be used to refine the concept plan. A consultation summary will be published on the project webpage.

Community feedback is reviewed and the concept refined.

1. Community feedback is reviewed and the concept refined.

2. A consultation summary is shared with the community.

3. Council considers whether to proceed and refer works to the 2026–27 Budget.

4. If funded, detailed design and construction timelines will be published. This would likely be in late 2026 to mid 2027.

Select the +Subscribe button on the project page to receive:

• Consultation updates
• Concept revisions
• Final design notifications
• Construction updates (if approved)