Welcome
Council is seeking community feedback on two concept plans for Blackwood Hill Reserve, informed by Stage 1 consultation findings. The concepts reflect a shared vision for safer, more functional, and inclusive public spaces that balance the needs of dog owners, families, and the wider community.
Blackwood Hill Reserve is a 19 hectare reserve located south of the railway line and borders the suburb of Craigburn Farm. Entrances to the reserve can be found on Trevor Terrace and Craigburn Road.
What we heard during Stage 1 consultation
Community engagement for the Animal Management in Public Spaces (Stage 1) project was undertaken in June / July 2025.
Several recurring themes were identified as part of the feedback collected:
- Strong support for fenced off-leash areas, particularly for dogs with poor recall
- Concerns about playground safety and dogs near children
- Desire for shared-use zones with clear boundaries
- Consistent calls for water, bins, shade, seating, and signage
- Interest in dog enrichment features, such as agility equipment and sniffari trails
- Need for enforcement and owner education
Blackwood Hill Reserve was recognised as being popular and well utilised. Engagement was strong but mixed; however, many participants supported fenced zones, enrichment features, and clearer separation from bushland.
Based on feedback received Council has prepared two concept plans based on the below vision and design principles:
