Policy Intent:

The green infrastructure network will include some land that may qualify as a Local Green Space. These spaces are particularly special and cherished by the local community for a combination of their public access, tranquillity and recreational value. They would be especially missed if they were not otherwise protected and were to be lost to development.

Once designated these sites are afforded a high level of protection from development, similar to locations within the Green Belt.

The NPPF (§106) sets out the criteria for Local Green Space designation. It can only be used where the green space is:

1. in reasonably close proximity to the community it serves;
2. demonstrably special to a local community and holds a particular local significance, for example because of its beauty, historic significance, recreational value (including as a playing field), tranquillity or richness of its wildlife; and
3. local in character and is not an extensive tract of land.

Jon Balaam, Director at the Greensand Trust has identified all of the Green Spaces within the Neighbourhood Plan area and has undertaken an initial assessment of each one using a recognised methodology . The list can be found here. Those locations which have passed the initial assessment have been mapped below. The assessment process is 2-stage – once there is an agreed list (initial list plus any others put forward through the informal consultation) all sites will be assessed in the field.