Proposed James Canning Gardens Off-Leash Area
The Proposed James Canning Gardens Off-Leash Area aims to transform an under-utilized section of James Canning Gardens into a vibrant community space dedicated to dog owners and their furry companions.
This initiative was sparked by a successful proposal submitted by a local resident in July 2024, advocating for the creation of a dog off-leash area in the newly acquired portion of the park.
The proposal highlights the potential of this transformation to enhance community interaction, improve safety, and provide a much-needed recreational spot for the growing number of dog owners in the vicinity.
Background
James Canning Gardens, originally designed in 2017 and reconstructed in 2021, has been a central green space within the community. The park's recent expansion, due to the acquisition of land from 14 Dundonald St, was not included in the previous redesign efforts. This new area, acquired through the development at 1 Bloor West, currently suffers from poor integration with the rest of the park, leading to under-utilization and un-programmed space.
The need for a dedicated dog off-leash area has been amplified by the influx of new residents and the pandemic puppy boom, which has increased the number of dogs in the neighbourhood. Currently, dog owners rely on two nearby off-leash areas, Barbara Hall Park and Breadalbane Dog Off Leash Area, both of which are well-utilized but do not fully meet the growing demand.
The adoption of the City-wide Dog Off Leash Area Master Plan provides a framework for establishing new off-leash areas with clear guidelines. After meeting with Parks staff, the proposal for the James Canning Gardens Off-Leash Area has been deemed feasible.
As part of the next steps, we are seeking public input through a survey open until November 30, 2025. Community feedback will be crucial in both determining support and shaping this project to ensure it meets the needs of all residents and contributes positively to the neighbourhood's livability and safety.
Phases
Survey Results & Review
Though the 2025 round of Participatory Budgeting, $500,000 of Community Benefits Funding was allocated by the community towards the construction of the Dog Off-Leash Area. This funding and the decision to proceed with the Dog Off Leash area is now under review by my office and Parks & Recreation staff to determine feasibility, total costs, and timeline.
Survey Results
General Comments
Most respondents strongly support the proposed off-leash area, seeing it as a much-needed and positive addition to the community that would increase their use of the park. Many believe it would help address current issues in the park, such as illegal camping, drug use, and general neglect, by increasing positive community presence and activity.
Several respondents urge the city to move forward quickly with the project and suggest practical features for the off-leash area, such as full fencing, water fountains for people and dogs, comfortable seating, shade, and a suitable ground surface (not gravel/grit).
However, there is concern from at least one respondent about noise impacts on nearby residents, referencing issues at another off-leash area (Barbara Hall Park), and calling for direct consultation with those living closest to the proposed site. This respondent also questions whether the area is large enough to meet city requirements.
Overall, the dominant themes are strong support for the off-leash area as a way to revitalize the park and address safety/social issues, with some calls for careful planning regarding amenities and consideration of potential noise impacts on immediate neighbours.
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