Masons Road Flood Retarding Basin Dog Off Leash Area (Blackburn)
One access point is the end of Mason Street where there is a small grassy area with a few trees and a rubbish bin. A path and steps lead up to the top of the embankment of the retarding basin. This is going to be a starker place because all the trees on the embankment are getting cut down for safety reasons. The area here has metal grilles over drain pipes and small unfortunate dogs might be able to slip through the bars.
The area then opens up to a large green grassy area with the embankment on one side and houses and trees on the other side. There are a few seats to rest on but no tap. The path along the bottom of the embankment is very rocky and it would be easy to twist an ankle in this area. At the eastern end you reach a fence which blocks continued access. Be aware that this whole area can flood during periods of heavy rain. The Masons Road Retarding Basin was built in the early 1970s and plays a crucial role in managing stormwater and protecting properties. When it rains heavily, the retarding basin reduces flood risk by retaining stormwater and releasing it downstream in a more controlled manner.
Map:
Photos:
Location
32 Masons Road, Blackburn 3130 Map
