CONCLUSIONS
69. Scottish Ministers are strongly committed to ensuring that communities have access to the benefits of open space, with a range of opportunities to take part in sport and other physical activity. This SPP sets out national planning policy for the protection and enhancement of open space in and around towns and cities, and indicates how the planning system should address the needs of outdoor recreation in urban and rural settings. The policy emphasises the need for local authorities and other stakeholders to take a strategic and long-term view of open space and sports provision, ensuring that the current and future needs of communities are met.