Survey Results for Proposed Dog Off-Leash Area Near Second Beach

May 6, 2005 (No. 31) - The results of a survey on the desirability of a dog off-leash zone on the shoreline south of Second Beach in Stanley Park indicate a lack of support for the proposal. Park Board staff have advised the Planning and Environment Committee of the Board that the matter not be pursued further.

In February, members of the public petitioned the Park Board to consider designating an off-leash zone on English Bay. They asked that the site be located north of Denman Street and within easy walking distance of the West End. The first stretch of non-bathing beach north of Denman Street that met the petitioners' request was identified by staff as the shoreline just south of Second Beach. A public survey on the off-leash proposal was then conducted by staff.

Since establishing the Dog Off-leash Program in 1998 the Board has regularly engaged the public in consultation to make ongoing improvements to the program. Currently, there are 31 dog off-leash areas on Vancouver parks across the city. Seven of these provide water access for dogs. Details on off-leash locations and regulations can be found on the Park Board web site.

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For further information, contact: Carol DeFina, Communications Coordinator, at 604-257-8440.

The Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation maintains 200 parks and 40 major facilities throughout the City of Vancouver. The Park Board's mission is to provide, preserve and advocate for parks and recreation services to benefit people, communities and the environment.