I am writing to add my voice to the many who are unhappy with the changes proposed by Bike Cochrane to the Jim Uffelmann Park.
We need to recognize that people who go to the multipurpose park with their dogs usually have many purposes for being there, not just to let their dogs have freedom to be off-leash.
At present, this pathway is enjoyed by people who go there to enjoy the riverside path for walking, running, pushing strollers, etc. while at the same time socializing with others, as well as exercising their dogs.
People also pass through on bicycles.
I understand that many cyclists move at a faster pace than other users and find the pathway congested at times.
The proposal to separate the green area from the path with a fence as a dog off-leash area does not give recognition to the fact that people need a pathway to walk on, when walking with their dogs.
If cyclists require a less congested route, my suggestion is that another pathway be built along the northern fence line from the wooden bridge access as far as Spray Lakes Sawmills Family Sports Centre.
This would make a freer route for cyclists and others who want to travel fast (roller blades, runners, etc.), and the walkers would not have to put up with cyclists speeding right past them on the existing path.
This is a beautiful multipurpose riverside walk-through park, not simply an off-leash green space, and that is what makes it so special. Let's keep it that way.
Regards,
Margaret O'Regan
