EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The consultation on Draft SPP 11: Physical Activity and Open Space attracted a total of 138 responses from a wide range of national and local organisations and a number of individuals, with a large majority of the respondents agreeing with the principles, objectives and main proposals set out in the document.
Comments were also made on the scope of the SPP, with several respondents suggesting more comprehensive definitions of 'Open Space' and Physical Activity' should be provided to clarify what is covered by the SPP and also seeking clarity and consistency in the use of some of the terminology.
The recognition of the value of physical activity and open space was welcomed by respondents and there was strong support from allotments societies and some individuals to include specific reference to gardens.
There was a split in opinions in relation to the level of protection given to open space, including the presumption against development of open space. Whilst this was welcomed by community organisations and individuals, several respondents (mainly private sector organisations) criticised there was an 'over presumption' against the loss of existing open space.
The SPP's proposed requirement that local authorities should prepare an open space audit and strategy received strong support from respondents from all sectors. Respondents suggested there should be a set timeframe for carrying out this work and 40% of the local authorities responding raised concerns about resource implications for carrying out this work.
The principle of new national minimum standards for the quantity of open space in new developments received broad support. However there were also many comments about the detail of this - the private sector were the most critical about the operational arrangements of the minimum standards. There were also suggestions there should be greater flexibility especially in relation to different forms of residential development.