Public reports pack PDF 3 MB - Blaby District Council

Blaby District Council has risen to the challenge of preparing a strategy for its green
spaces in the light of the current fi nancial situation to make the greatest use of the
resources and meet the needs of local residents. The Green Space Strategy is one of
a number of plans refl ecting the Community Plan and will inform the development
of the Council’s Local Development Framework. The Strategy will inform planning
policy and enable the Council to protect and enhance Green Spaces. The strategy
should become the reference point for all the Council’s decisions in relation to the
design, development, management, maintenance and funding of green spaces.
Purpose of the Strategy:
Scope
Provide a shared vision for the future and ensure the linkages are evident
Provide a framework for parish / town councils and community groups
Help to identify improvements required and to set priorities
Help make the case for funding opportunities and planning obligations
Be responsive to the changing fi nancial, planning and policy environment
Understand and manage public expectations in relation to green space issues
Improve access and usage
The scope of this strategy will include the following classifi cations of green space:
Green Space Classifi cation Description
Parks and Recreation Grounds Recreation grounds, parks, and formal gardens often with a wide range
of uses
Outdoor Sports Space Fixed sports spaces that are accessible to the public (sports pitches, tennis
courts etc)
Children’s and Young People’s Space Equipped space (play areas) and provision for teenagers (multi-use games
areas)
Informal Open Space Spaces open and free to use but neither laid out or managed for a specifi c
function
Natural Green Space Natural Green Space open to the public (meadows, river fl oodplain & woodland)
Allotments Areas for people to grow their own produce and plants
Churchyards and Cemeteries Churchyards & cemeteries which can provide a tranquil haven for people
and wildlife
Green Corridors Green links from urban areas to the countryside and other settlements
Green Wedges Strategic green space to prevent settlements merging and to guide development
Public Rights of Way Public rights of way can include bridleways, paths and cycle routes
Civic Spaces This includes Market Squares, often in busy shopping areas
Sites of Special Scientifi c Interest (SSSI) Sites designated as being ecologically or geologically important
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