Jamberoo’s long-awaited dog park is officially moving ahead, with Kiama Council endorsing a revised design for a fenced off-leash area at the corner of Churchill Street and Gibson Crescent.

The project, expected to be completed by mid-2026, marks the culmination of years of advocacy from local residents. 

Jamberoo is the only township in the LGA without a designated off-leash dog space, an issue that gained momentum in 2022 when Kiama Council received a petition – attracting hundreds of signatures – calling for a fenced facility in the area.

Councillor Stuart Larkins said he was pleased to see the project progressing after a lengthy and at times contentious process.

“There’s been a long advocacy for dog space in Jamberoo. There isn’t any dog space, and it’s been an issue for quite some time,” Cr Larkins said. 

Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald said: “We’re happy the dog park is moving forward. Cr Larkins has been a driving force behind this and I thank him for his efforts. We’re getting closer to people being able to get out to the

centre of Jamberoo and enjoy this Council facility.”

Council assessed several potential sites before determining the Gibson Crescent reserve was the most suitable, with other options ruled out due to impacts on cemetery or sporting land.

Initial works began in April 2025, including plumbing and partial fencing, but the early installation of fencing prompted community concern about the size, layout and the loss of informal overflow parking used during events. 

The project was subsequently paused and five design options were placed on public exhibition between September and November.

Option 5, which proposed two separate dog areas, received the highest level of support. However, consultation also revealed strong sentiment for an unfenced space. 

Taking this feedback into account, Council has endorsed a modified Option 5 that will include a fenced 30m x 30m area for small dogs and a designated but unfenced off-leash area for large dogs. 

The park will also feature shade structures, seating, bins, footpaths and a drinking water bubbler.

The project is jointly funded by $75,600 from the NSW Government and $70,000 from Council’s developer contribution fund. 

With grant funding required to be spent by November 2026, it seems Jamberoo will finally be ready to let the dogs out – officially.