Council is seeking community feedback on a proposed off-lead dog exercise area at 34 Maddocks Road, Kingston and proposed dog training area at Dru Point, Margate.
Why new exercise and training areas are needed
In 2024, Council was officially advised that the Kingston Twin Ovals was chosen as the site for the Tasmanian Devil’s AFL High Performance Training Centre.
To accommodate two new ovals as part of this development, alternative sites have been identified to relocate the off-lead dog exercise park currently on Kingston View Drive and the Southern Obedience Club currently on Gormley Drive.
Council has been actively working with the Kingborough Dog Walkers Association (KDWA) and Southern Obedience Club to arrive at these alternative locations.
Council recognises how important these facilities have been for local dog owners and is committed to providing new, purpose-built exercise and training areas.
During the initial engagement process, several potential sites were considered, but most were ruled out due to issues such as unsatisfactory location, insufficient size, or inadequate parking.
The replacement sites will offer similar quality, functionality and amenities, ensuring they continue to meet the needs of dog owners, nearby residents, and the wider community.
Council is inviting the community to provide feedback on the proposed new areas.
This public consultation will allow the community the opportunity to provide feedback on the proposed sites before the current sites are closed in 2026.
The public consultation will be open from 4 December 2025 until 14 January 2026
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
34 Maddocks Road, Kingston
The proposed new dog off-lead exercise area site is located at 34 Maddocks Road, Kingston.
The image below is an early concept of the potential layout of this site and may change following further design work and community consultation.
We’re asking for your feedback on features such as:
- Layout and fencing (e.g. separate area for small or shy dogs)
- Safety and accessibility (gates, paths suitable for prams and mobility devices)
- Amenities (bins, bag dispensers, seating, shade/planting, water points)
- Signage and rules to support responsible dog ownership
- Operating hours and any seasonal considerations
- Parking, access and connections to nearby paths
Final design elements will be confirmed after community engagement and technical assessments.
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Dru Point, Margate
The site identified as the preferred location for the relocation of the Southern Obedience Club is a parcel of land at Dru Point, Margate – shown below.
While the design and features of this area will be established in consultation with the Southern Obedience Club, Council would still like to hear your views on this proposed location.
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
PROVIDE FEEDBACK
Input through the community survey and email/written submissions will inform the development of the exercise and training areas.
If you would like to make a submission you can either:
- Complete an engagement SURVEY HERE
- Send an email to kc@kingborough.tas.gov.au with the subject: Dog exercise and training areas.
- Write a letter addressed to the CEO and send it to Kingborough Council, 15 Channel Hwy, Kingston 7050.
Assistance: If you need assistance with making a submission, please call Council’s Customer Service team on 6211 8200. There are also printed copies available at the Customer Service counter at the Civic Centre.
Privacy
Your personal information is collected for the purpose of community engagement and will be handled in accordance with Council’s privacy policy. Anonymous feedback is welcome.