The Town of Sidney is taking another step toward creating a long-discussed off-leash dog park, and two waterfront green spaces are now under consideration.
Council has been reviewing plans for a small fenced dog area at Iroquois Park, where staff previously proposed an enclosure roughly the size of the existing tennis courts.
After collecting public feedback throughout September, council is also asking staff to present a comparable concept for Tulista Park—specifically a spot just south of the skateboard park.
Sidney residents were invited to share their thoughts by email, and the town received 59 letters: 32 in support, 22 opposed, and five neutral but raising related issues.
Those in favour pointed to the lack of an off-leash area on the east side of town, a gap that was highlighted back in the 2018 Parks Master Plan.
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Supporters said an enclosure within walking distance of downtown would be convenient for dog owners who currently drive to Cy Hampson Park in North Saanich.
Others noted that a fenced space could help reduce ongoing conflicts around dogs being exercised in the sports courts.
Opposition centred largely on the proposed location at Iroquois Park, with concerns about noise, the impact on the park’s character, and the close proximity to the playground, splash park and duck pond.
Several residents worry the space is too small, especially if divided for small and large dogs, and question whether the heavily used park can accommodate yet another feature.
Others raised parking concerns or suggested alternate sites—including Tulista Park, Rathdown Park, Resthaven Park, Third Street and even portions of airport lands.
Staff continue to recommend an enclosed dog area at Iroquois Park, noting that fencing would help shift off-leash activity away from the sport courts and offer a safe space for small dogs.
The enclosure would be brought forward as part of the 2026 budget process, with an estimated cost of $20,000 to $30,000 for fencing and related improvements.
However, council wants to compare both Iroquois Park and Tulista Park side by side.
Detailed concepts for both locations will return to council in late January, and the town is continuing to accept feedback at engineeringservices@sidney.ca.
