Open space, sport and recreation

Open space, sport and recreational provision can make a major contribution to the quality of life of people who live, work and visit Bury. Government policy is set out in the National Planning Policy Framework which was published in March 2012.

The National Planning Policy Framework requires robust and up-to-date assessments of the needs for open space, sport and recreation facilities to help identify specific needs and determine what open space, sport and recreational provision is required.

Greenspace audit and strategy

The Greenspace Audit and Strategy (GSAS) was published in February 2015 and includes an audit and assessment of open space, sport and recreation which was originally carried out in 2012. It also assessed the long term requirements in terms of quantity, quality and accessibility of the various types of open space, sport and recreation for future provision in meeting local need where appropriate, through establishing minimum standards to be achieved. The aims of the report were to:

• meet the requirements of the National Planning Policy Framework for open space, sport and recreation and the methodology set out in the Companion Guide to Planning Policy Guidance note 17 (PPG17)
• use the findings to direct funding and contributions from developers to those areas in need of new or enhanced provision.

The Greenspace Audit and Strategy has been prepared in accordance with the PPG17 Companion Guide prior to its cancellation as Government advice in 2014. Sport England has produced advice in relation to indoor and outdoor sport although further general practice guidance to support the National Planning Policy Framework approach towards assessment of open space, sport and recreation is yet to be produced. The next review of the Greenspace Audit and Strategy and other evidence relating to open space, sport and recreation will need to take account of Sport England's new objectives.

The evidence within the Greenspace Audit and Strategy supports our Supplementary Planning Document 1 on 'Open Space, Sport and Recreation Provision in New Housing Developments' and will be used to inform future policies and allocations developed as part of the Bury Local Plan.

Bury playing pitch and outdoor sport strategy

We've published a Playing Pitch and Outdoor Sport Strategy and accompanying assessment report and executive summary. Together, these documents set out a strategic framework for the maintenance and improvement of existing playing pitches and outdoor sports facilities and ancillary facilities for the period between 2018 and 2037.

The Playing Pitch and Outdoor Sport Strategy ensures that the provision of outdoor playing pitches meet the local needs of existing and future residents across the borough and has been produced in accordance with Sport England Playing Pitch Strategy guidance. Its robust and objective justification for future playing pitch provision will guide resource allocation, provide evidence for funding and support policies in the emerging Bury Local Plan.