We, the undersigned are petitioning the city of Ottawa to build a fence around the grassy area at the exit of Westcliffe Park (Corner of Westcliffe and Seyton) beside the apartment building (2 Hammill Court), to allow for a dog park – coordinates 45°18'60.0"N 75°50'13.9"W

This could include a double-gated entrance, as well as a structure to place the waste. There are similar structures all over Canada. A wooden bin with a cover and cans inside would be provided for waste, as well as two shovels. A volunteer-based waste bag container could also be instituted to eliminate waste. I've seen this achieved in Hudson, Quebec.

Most green spaces in Bells Corners are not the most welcoming for pet owners - NCC Trails forbid dogs during certain months and dogs must be leashed and the trails can be very swampy which is not great for ticks. There are no dogs allowed in Westcliffe Park. Despite this, many residents end up using Westcliffe Park, which is not ideal as some dogs may get loose (and have) and go into the play structures which may not be safe or desirable for children and adults for various reasons, which is understandable.

While Bruce Pit may be close, many residents do not wish to use it due to its large size, unfenced perimeter, and it is not within walking distance.

There is an off-leash area in Bells Corners at the end of Florizel, however the area is not fenced-in and residents use this “park” to enter the greenbelt. This causes the greenbelt gate to be opened and closed often and dogs rush up to the gate at people (and sometimes dogs). It also provides dogs the opportunity to escape into the greenbelt. Since it is close to the belt, there have been instances where dogs have had run-ins with porcupines and other assorted wildlife.

There has been a request to fence in this park in the past, however this would mean ensuring there is a separate fenced-in path where those entering and exiting the greenbelt could use.

Having a fenced in dogs-only area would be a boon for many of us who know each other in the neighbourhood. It would also remove issues for people who could be nervous about loose dogs in parks and at the entrance to the greenbelt. Many residents in the area allow their dogs to socialize and play together – this initiative would provide just a spot for that.