Green Belt: Leisure
The question
To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, if she will make an assessment of the potential contribution of the greenbelt to adjacent urban communities to health and recreational opportunities.
Answered by Matthew Pennycook
Access to high quality open spaces, whether located inside or outside the Green Belt, is important for the health and well-being of communities. That is why local authorities are asked to base their planning policies on robust and up-to-date assessments of the need for open space, sport and recreation facilities, and opportunities for new provision.
The National Planning Policy Framework is clear that open space, sports and recreational buildings and land, including playing fields and formal play spaces, should not be built on unless there is clear evidence they are no longer required; equivalent or better provision is secured in a suitable location; or development of the site is for alternative sports and recreational provision, the benefits of which clearly outweigh the loss of the current or former use.
Within the Green Belt, major development is required to provide new or improved green spaces accessible to the public. Authorities should also look for opportunities to enhance the beneficial use of Green Belt land, including outdoor recreation.
Verbatim has judged this answer against the question that was actually asked — answered, partly answered, or evaded. Sign in to see the verdict →