Brock opens new dog park in Beaverton

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard

BROCK: Beaverton’s four-legged residents now have a new place to run, play, and socialize, following the official opening of the Township of Brock’s new municipal dog park.

The dog park, located at Mill Gateway Park, 204 Simcoe St. in Beaverton, officially opened September 9th with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, attended by Brock Township Council, staff, residents, and their dogs.

The new facility provides separate fenced areas for large and small dogs, along with safety features and amenities, designed to make the park an enjoyable gathering place for both pets and their owners.

The large-dog area covers approximately 26,650 square feet, while a separate area for smaller dogs provides approximately 2,600 square feet of fenced space.

Double-capture gates have been installed at the entrances, to provide an additional safety measure, while waste receptacles and signage, outlining park rules, are also located throughout the facility.

For, Beaverton resident, Grace Wilson, the opening provides a welcome addition to the community.

“It’s great to finally have a dedicated place where dogs can run and play safely,” said Ms. Wilson. “It’s also a nice opportunity for neighbours to meet each other and spend some time together.”

Another local resident, Kevin Bond, said, the separate areas for large and small dogs were particularly welcome.

“I think this will be a great addition to Beaverton,” said Mr. Bond. “Having a space for dogs to get exercise and socialize makes a big difference, and it’s something the community has been waiting for.”

For, Brock Mayor, Mike Jubb, the opening represents the completion of a project which has been several years in the making.

“On behalf of Council, it is exciting to see yet another capital project come to fruition in the Township of Brock. This project did not happen overnight and has been almost five years in the making,” Mayor Jubb said.

“After thorough public consultation and engagement, planning began to find a suitable location, design, and budget for our first dog park. We are pleased to see this successful project, and I am certain this will be enjoyed for many years to come,” he continued.

The project followed public consultation and planning, to determine an appropriate location, design, and budget for Brock’s first municipal dog park.

For, local dog owner, Faye Joseph, the new facility will make it much easier for residents to give their pets the opportunity to exercise and socialize.

“For years we have had to travel outside for a facility like this, and as our dogs age, they are getting more anxious in the car,” Ms. Joseph said. “This is a wonderful addition to the town.”

The Township thanked residents for their patience and cooperation, throughout the construction process, and said, it looks forward to seeing the new recreational amenity become part of the Beaverton community.

Residents using the dog park are reminded to follow the rules outlined in Brock Township’s Parks By-Law and to help keep the facility clean and safe for everyone.

The new dog park adds another recreational option to Mill Gateway Park and gives local dog owners a dedicated space to exercise their pets while connecting with other members of the community.