RESIDENTS have been left disappointed that renewal works at Lens Reserve in Crib Point have left the dog park a treeless dustbowl.
The site was previously used as a landfill, with the shire responsible for managing the post-closure aspects of the site. An audit of the site in 2021 found the landfill cap had deteriorated and the site required rehabilitation work with a contractor appointed last year to complete the $1.5m project (Tip rehabilitation to fall on ratepayers, The News 25/3/25).
Now complete, residents returning to the park have been disappointed with the outcome, which has left the area clear of vegetation.
“After a three month wait, we are finally allowed back to our local dog park,” said resident Simon Westfold.
“No attempt has been made to restore the grass covering. The published plan showed a three-metre-wide walking track skirting the edge of the park. Instead we have an unappealing five-metre-wide road doing a tight loop around the centre.
“Nothing else done to make the park more usable or attractive.”
A statement from the shire to The News explained the primary purpose of the works was to repair the landfill cap.
“A large portion of the area is now covered with topsoil and grass seed with a six-month maintenance program, including regular watering, underway,” said the statement.
“As works only recently finished (mid-December), we’re monitoring and watering to help the grass establish – this will naturally take some time.
“One small section still needs seeding, which will be completed during this maintenance period when conditions are more favourable.
“To protect the landfill cap, trees and large plants won’t be planted because their roots can cause damage.”
First published in the Mornington News – 27 January 2026