“Access to high quality open spaces and opportunities for sport and recreation can make an important contribution to the health and well-being of communities.” National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) March 2012.
Planning policies should be based on robust and up‑to‑date assessments of the needs for open space, sports and recreation facilities and opportunities for new provision. The assessments should identify the specific needs in the local area.
Specific policies which protect open space and support improved provision are detailed in HUDU’s rapid health impact assessment toolkit.
The London Plan similarly recognises the importance of green infrastructure to health and provides guidance on areas of deficiency.
In addition, the Mayor has produced:
- more detailed guidance on green infrastructure provision and opportunities through the All London Green Grid Supplementary Planning Guidance (March 2012).
- the Shaping Neighbourhoods: Children and Young People’s Play and Informal Recreation SPG (Sept 2012).
The All London Green Grid SPG aims to promote the concept of green infrastructure, and increase its delivery by advocating the benefits including sustainable travel, flood management, healthy living, and creating distinctive destinations; and the economic and social uplift these support.