Redevelopment of Sippy Creek Animal Pound

Sunshine Coast Council today (April 24, 2014) endorsed a new design and location of the Sippy Creek Animal Pound which will entail a revamp of the 30-year-old facility’s infrastructure and layout.

Community Programs Portfolio holder and Division 5 Councillor Jenny McKay said the redevelopment of the Sippy Creek Animal Pound was an exciting initiative integral to animal management services for the Sunshine Coast Council community.

“The review of the location and infrastructure of the pound facility built in 1983 was a recommendation from council’s Operational Plan 2013 – 2014,” Cr McKay said.

“The adoption of the new pound design and location provides guidance for the long term development of the site in line with population growth and increasing demand for quality animal management facilities by the community.

“Throughout the development of the design option, pet ownership, registration and impoundment trends, population projections and needs and demands were analysed.

“Impact from possible flooding, accessibility, residential development in close proximity and how the site relates to the surrounding population were also considered in the preparation of the design option.

“Following today’s endorsement, the detailed design documentation will commence including identification of costs, stages and funding options.”

The pound will be relocated to an adjacent site on Sippy Creek Rd – Lot 427 SP237585 – and key features of the redevelopment design will include:

• Large (cattle and other livestock) and small (dog and cats) animal enclosures contained within the one site;
• All stockyards to include access to water / food and shelter;
• Separation of functional spaces from operational staff and general public;
• Secure back-of-house area to ensure public safety;
• Pronounced administration building for clear identification of office;
• Separation of kennels and cattery; and
• Inclusion of transfer bay to ensure safe and secure transferral of animals from vehicles to kennels, cages or yards.

Services Delivery Portfolio Councillor Ted Hungerford said while the pound redevelopment was important, in reality the facility would not be required at all if pet owners were responsible for their animals and understood pet ownership was a significant long term commitment.

“Council works very closely with the Australian Veterinary Association, RSPCA, Sippy Creek Animal Refuge and 4Paws to encourage responsible pet ownership throughout the region and assist with the rehoming of our unwanted four legged friends,” Cr Hungerford said.

“We are arguably one of the leading council regions in the country for the number of cats and dogs we transition through our pound to these incredible animal welfare shelters to help find forever homes.

“And these organisations are struggling right now with record numbers of unwanted animals coming through their doors, so please lend your support however you can.”