North Vancouver residents living in or near the rapidly expanding Lions Gate Village community have a new place to take their pups.
A fenced, “leash-optional” dog park opened this week at the future site of Belle Isle Park, which is being built within the emerging village centre near Capilano Road and Marine Drive.
Located at 1806 Belle Isle Pl., the District of North Vancouver says it expects the temporary park to be open for one and a half to two years, before being redeveloped within a permanent park slated for the area.
For now, the park is around 11,000 square feet in size.
“While enjoying the park, please ensure that your dog is under control at all times and on a leash outside the fenced dog area,” reads a statement from the district.
District spokesperson Courtenay Rannard said the park will eventually close for construction of the permanent park, and existing wooden fencing will be used for other projects.
A grass area adjacent to the dog park has been seeded and will open in spring 2023, according to the district.
Public consultation for Belle Isle Park began in 2016, and is now in its “detailed design phase.” Plans for the park have been influenced by the district’s Lions Gate Village guidelines, the official community plan as well as the parks and open space strategic plan.
In addition to a multi-sport court, play structures for kids and trail connections, Belle Isle Park is expected to include a small (5,400-6,500 square feet) fenced “urban” dog park.
The district said a phased approach to development is being taken because single-family homes around the park will be there for the foreseeable future. “This will allow existing residents to access their properties on an interim basis.”
For more information, visit the district’s website.
