Skip to content

Delta eyeing off-leash dog enclosure for busy Ladner park

Paterson Park has a well-used dog off-leash area with on-site parking and a recreational walking oval
paterson park proposed off-leash enclosure
The proposed off-leash enclosure at Paterson Park would be located near the parking lot.

A new enclosed off-leash dog area could be coming to Ladner’s Paterson Park.

A staff report to the Parks, Recreation and Culture Commission proposes conceptual plans for enclosures at the existing off-leash areas within Paterson Park as well as Pebble Hill Park.

The Paterson Park project would cost an estimated $150,000.

A report to the commission notes that with an open infield space, the Paterson Park setting allows dog owners to easily see their dogs, even if they are a significant distance away.

However, residents have expressed concern about their dogs’ safety, especially with the proximity of Ladner Trunk Road.

To support the community's continued use of the oval for recreational purposes, a large enclosure was proposed adjacent to the existing parking lot.

Still requiring council’s approval, the proposed enclosure does not alter the existing boundaries of the designated dog off-leash area in the park.

The report also notes a survey during public consultation, which took place this spring, found a majority of respondents were generally supportive or satisfied with the size of the enclosure being 4,400-square-metres, as well as having a double-gate system.

When asked about additional features, survey respondents focused on a drinking fountain or water source for dogs and some form of shade for people as highest priorities for additional features, should funding allow.

Any extension of the proposed enclosure to the east would require engagement with Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU), which owns the eastern portion of the park.

Also, should funding allow after the completion of the fencing and gate system, the project will include improved drainage at the park.

The report adds that staff will monitor the usage upon completion to evaluate success.

“Should the need arise for an expansion of the enclosure, staff will engage KPU in exploratory dialogue to determine the feasibility of an enclosure expansion, and update council at the proper time,” the report notes.