New dog pen to be built in Haruspuisto park

The construction of a new dog park 200 metres northeast of the current dog park is going to begin in Haruspuisto park in Meri-Rastila in April. The old dog park will be demolished. This will provide additional seating, play and exercise space.
Ilmakuva Haruspuistosta.
The dog park is located in the wooded eastern section of Haruspuisto park near the junction of Rikipolku and Halkaisijanpolku. During the project, the pen will be moved a few hundred metres to the northeast from its current location. Photo: Helsingin kaupunki

The number of users in Haruspuisto park will increase in the future due to the increase in population of Meri-Rastila. New buildings are also being built in the area. The location of the dog park will be moved to provide additional space for recreation, playing and exercising in the area. At the same time, we will be making sure that the minimum distance to residential blocks is retained.

Construction of the dog park will begin in April. The park will have separate pens for small and large dogs. In addition to benches and rubbish bins, the area will also feature shelters. The current dog pen will be taken out of use during construction, as the fences from the old dog park will be reused in the new park. One dog pen will remain in use until the new dog park is finished.

Invasive species control measures will be carried out in the area simultaneously with the dog park construction project. After the control measures have been concluded, more plants will be planted as a screen between the dog park and the nearest residential buildings.

Seven trees will be cut down in March in the area where the new pen will be built. Any trunks suitable for use as decaying fallen trees will be placed in forested areas later on.

The objective is to complete the dog park by September 2025.

Other reforms also expected for the park

Meri-Rastila is one of the City of Helsinki’s suburban regeneration areas, where the City is paying particular attention to improving services and comfort. Suburban regeneration is carried out in cooperation and interaction with local residents.

In addition to the new dog park, a new playground, recreational area and multi-purpose field are also planned for Haruspuisto park. The park will also feature an exercise area and ball games area with a street basketball field with a hoop.