Open Space Strategy for the Canterbury district Contents

Transcription

1 Open Space Strategy for the Canterbury district Contents No Page 1 Introduction 1.1 What is open space Why have a strategy Value of open space Summary of corporate strategic links Scope of strategy refresh and exclusions Methodology Playing Pitch Strategy Other associated strategies: Links to Play Strategy, Stour 7 Riverside Strategy, Allotment Strategy 1.9 Putting people first identifying local need 8 2 Strategic Vision, policy aims and objectives 2.1 Introduction Strategic vision, policy aims and objectives 10 3 Local context 3.1 The unique character of the District Profile of district 14 4 Audit of Canterbury open space 4.1 Key attributes Mapping of provision and identifying gaps in provision 15 5 Setting and applying local standards 5.1 Setting local standards Applying local standards 18 6 Delivery 6.1 Issues to consider Rationale Performance Indicators SMART Action plan Monitoring, review and reporting 23 Appendices 24 Acknowledgements 25 Open Space Strategy for the Canterbury district

2 1 Introduction 1.1 What is open space? Open space is the natural and built landscape that provides the setting in which we live, it makes a major contribution to raising the quality of life of residents and visitors. Canterbury district is blessed with ancient woodland, high quality parks and gardens, beautiful coastline and attractive countryside Planning Policy Guidance 17 (PPG17) focuses on the auditing and assessing need of public open space from a recreational point of view. A companion guide to PPG17 states that open space and sport and recreation facilities can make a major contribution to ensuring that villages, towns and cities are places in which people will choose to live. Table 1 below illustrates the open space PPG 17 typologies, definitions and some local examples. Note, since 2004 Fields in Trust (FIT), formerly National Playing Fields Association, have refined Fixed Play Areas into the categories shown in Table 1. This is consistent with the adopted Play Strategy (2009). Table 1 PPG 17 national definitions and local examples Type Definition Examples from Canterbury District Parks and Gardens Including urban parks, country parks and formal gardens. Memorial Park Herne Bay Westgate Gardens Green Corridors Including rivers and canal banks, cycle ways and rights of way Plus accessible green space in urban fringe. Canterbury Stour Riverside walk Whitstable, Crab and Winkle Amenity green space Provision for children and young people (Fixed Play areas) Including informal recreation spaces, green spaces in and around housing, domestic gardens and village greens. Including play areas, skate parks outdoor basketball hoops and other informal areas (teenage hanging out areas and shelters) Tankerton Slopes, Tannery field Trilby Way Whitstable, Hampton Pier, - Herne Bay Toddlers Cove Canterbury and Skate park Swalecliffe NOTE for fixed play Fields in Trust have refined these areas to: areas 0 to 5 year olds Local Area of play space (LAP) no equipment Linked to amenity open space 5 to 12 year olds Local Equipped Area for Play (LEAP) Trilby Way Whitstable 12 year olds plus Neighbourhood Equipped Area for Play (NEAP) Hampton Pier, - Herne Bay Toddlers Cove Canterbury Open Space Strategy for the Canterbury district

3 Natural and semi natural urban green spaces Outdoor sports facilities Including woodlands, urban forestry, scrub, grasslands, wetlands, open and running water, wastelands and derelict open land and rock areas cliffs, quarries and pits. Including tennis courts, bowling greens, sports pitches, golf courses athletics tracks school and institutional playing fields and other outdoor sports areas. The Blean Woodland, Seasalter Flats, River Stour Network and Reculver Country Park Victoria Recreation Ground- Canterbury Radfall Recreation Ground Chestfield Source: PPG 17 Planning for open space, sport and recreation Although the strategy adheres to PPG17 typologies it recognises that open space is multi functional. For instance, the primary function of Reculver Country Park could be considered a park or a semi- natural space or a green corridor. It has a range of functions: protection of SSSI, biodiversity, conservation of a historical site, walking and cycling Parks and Gardens are considered to be an urban provision; therefore there is a focus on Canterbury, Herne Bay and Whitstable. 2.1 Why have a strategy? Canterbury City Council recognises the importance of open space to visitors and residents in providing the backdrop to a world heritage city and strong sense of place within the district. The council will protect and enhance the quality of its open spaces The original Open Space Strategy for Canterbury district has been a success, however it is in need of a revision. The Open Space Strategy for Canterbury district (strategy) contains a shared vision and objectives from a range of agencies and partners. It informs the specific actions and gives direction, performance indictors and targets These will only be delivered in partnership as no one organisation manages or has the resources to deliver the strategy vision on their own. It will also give details of what we do well, where the quality and quantity of open space needs to be improved and how we intend to achieve this through SMART action plans. (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Timely) The strategy is aimed at parks professionals, planners, developers, conservation officers plus community groups, local authorities, partner organisations and funding agencies. It aims to build upon the technical quality of the previous strategy and appeal to a broader audience. 1.3 Value of open space Parks and open spaces play an important role in the lives of many people and are fundamental to delivering the shared priorities established between central government and local government, including: improving the quality of life for all sections of the community promoting healthier communities and narrowing health inequalities Open Space Strategy for the Canterbury district

4 providing opportunities for active and passive recreation, relaxation, social interaction, play and spiritual refreshment creating safer and stronger communities transforming our local environment and ensuring sustainability meeting local needs more effectively promoting the economic viability of localities enhancing biodiversity Parks and open spaces are for everyone, where we meet, stop and reflect and revive our spirits. They provide places for play, sport and recreation, to get away from the stresses of modern life. Good quality parks and open spaces have a big impact on local communities in terms of providing the green setting for good quality neighbourhoods. They can support and improve the local quality of life for residents and visitors Parks and open spaces have the potential to provide added value to provide habitat and food source for native species including birds, shade on hot days, reduce the impacts of pollution and help regulate surface water drainage. 1.4 Summary of corporate strategic links Canterbury City Council Corporate Plan 2008 to 2012 consultation emphasised the value the community places on open space and concluded that the importance of having good quality and range of leisure or culture facilities. Open space is a major element of the leisure and cultural offer in the district The Corporate Plan includes several objectives linked to open space: Objective 15 is: To safeguard the quality of the natural and built heritage of the district Implement Reculver Strategy Improve access to Canterbury riverside Refurbish Whitstable Castle Objective 27 is: Encourage capital investment in sports and play facilities Develop community football hub in Canterbury city Refurbishment of play areas programme implemented Expand existing provision of play areas Objective 33 is: Enhance the natural environment and public open space across the district The Blean Woods and Stour Valley recognised and managed as reserves as part Natural East Kent; Work with partners to develop a woodland visitor centre within Blean Woods and secure the acquisition of additional woodland to protect its status Implement agreement with RSPB for the better management of the Seasalter marshes; All Together Now Community Strategy indicates links to open space via developing communities, increasing access to a range of affordable leisure and cultural opportunities, to develop a lasting natural and built environment Open Space Strategy for the Canterbury district

5 that everyone can enjoy plus to ensure everyone can enjoy a healthy life. All Together Now Community Strategy The East Kent Local Strategic Partnership Sustainable Community Strategy is the first multi agency approach to developing East Kent. It recognises the beauty of its coast and countryside continues to be cherished as the precious asset it is. The strategy Lighting the way to Success is a long term (20 years) ambitious strategy with 5 key aims, one of which is combining to form a world class visitor destination, celebrating its rich distinctive natural environment, heritage and culture East Kent Local Strategic Partnership The strategy recognises the value of the coastline, woodland areas and internationally renowned habitat areas as key assets for East Kent that need a balance between active promotion and protection. The strategy states: As a consequence safeguarding the natural environment must be a priority The Safer Canterbury District Plan 2009 vision is to make the area safer by reducing crime, disorder and anti social behaviour. It includes a theme of Physical Environment, which relates to open space and it has three key actions: Increase people s sense of safety and well-being by providing and maintaining quality open space. Improve feelings of safety in urban, rural and coastal environments Increase public satisfaction that crime and disorder are being dealt with effectively The Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004 requires Local Planning Authorities to produce a Local Development Framework to replace the Local Plan. The Local Development Framework will be comprised of local development documents which include development plan documents and supplementary planning documents The Local Plan will be reviewed through the Local Development Framework process and the Core Strategy. In the meantime the Council has saved the majority of the Local Plan policies, which have been agreed by GOSE in July The Core Strategy will set the spatial strategy for the district up until 2026 and it needs to consider issues raised in this strategy Further desk- top research on strategic links, policies and legislation is included in appendix Scope of strategy revision and exclusions The strategy aims to build upon the existing strategy strengths, review new legislation, reflect on new research and consultation plus attempt to address fresh challenges The scope of the strategy reflects Planning Policy Guidance 17 (PPG17) planning for open space, sport and recreation typologies and the diverse nature of the District: Open Space Strategy for the Canterbury district

6 Amenity open space informal recreation and green spaces, usually around housing Green corridors including river banks, cycle ways and rights of way. Semi natural areas such as woodlands, downlands, wetlands, scrubland and rocky areas such as cliffs. Parks and gardens urban parks, country parks and formal gardens Fixed play areas including play areas, skate parks and outdoor basketball hoops or other informal play areas. Outdoor sports pitches natural or artificial public or private sports pitches. Coast coastline The revision of the strategy considered civic spaces, but different civic space areas have such specific and different issues. The three key identified civic spaces are: Central Canterbury, Herne Bay seafront and Whitstable seafront. These are being considered by separate partnership groups and are not included in this strategy The strategy recognises the importance of cemeteries and churchyards as open space, but these are not included in this strategy. 1.6 Methodology A cross department officer-working group was set up and engaged the community in extensive consultation plus reported to through the appropriate committees within Canterbury City Council and to the Local Strategic Partnership. The group followed the PPG 17 model of: Desk top research, identifying local need, auditing local provision, setting and applying local provision standards, drafting polices and action plan 1.7 Playing Pitch Strategy The aim is to incorporate playing pitches as an element in the revision of the Open Space Strategy. We have used the existing Playing Pitch Strategy (2003) as a base and have worked with Sport England and local governing bodies of the four key sports: cricket, football, hockey and rugby plus Fields in Trust (formerly National Playing Fields Association). It does not include athletic facilities, golf courses, bowling greens or tennis courts and further work will be required. There is also a need to link open space provision with an emerging indoor sport facility strategy An issue that needs to be considered is private club pitches and publicly accessible pitches. The Local Plan does not differentiate between private and public pitches. PPG 17 Guidance for The Open Space Strategies recognises the value of both public and private, but there is a focus on publicly accessible open space. The Playing Pitch Strategy 2003 considered both private and public pitches. Finally, the area has a number of education establishments that may or may not allow general community access The usage of sports pitches tends to be as a team or group therefore the strategy considers pitches that the public can hire for use There has been a drive in recent years to open up educational sports pitches. However, most educational facilities are not keen to hire out grass sports Open Space Strategy for the Canterbury district

7 pitches to community groups as they may result in overuse and therefore the grass pitches would not be in good condition for the students and are not cost effective when staffing costs are considered. Equally, educational establishments tend not to allow general public or community informal use due to security plus health and safety concerns on site With regards synthetic turf pitches (STP) most educational facilities hire these out to the community to generate income to help with running costs The main playing pitch legislation centres around Sport England as consultee on the disposal of playing pitches in educational or community settings. The basic aim is to prevent pitches being lost, however, if a pitch is lost it needs to be replaced like for like The Local Plan 2006 saved policies July 2009 includes C27 safeguarding existing playing fields Sport England has recently refreshed their sports strategy Sport England Strategy There is a focus on the London 2012 Olympics being a stimulus, with a pathway from sport for sports sake, to school to community to elite performance. Appendix 2 summarises the key playing pitch issues The conclusions of the playing pitch strategy feed into the Open Space Strategy action plan: 1 Work with partners to develop a community hub to meet the demand for senior football and mini football in Canterbury. There is a potential link with rugby to address lack of rugby junior and training facilities. 2 Development of a youth football centre in Herne Bay, potentially linked to new cricket pitch. 3 Development of a youth/mini football centre in Whitstable, potentially linked to new cricket pitch. 4 Any future STP should consider being developed in tandem with local secondary schools to maximise usage. 5 Work with partners to develop a rolling programme of improvements to changing rooms and pitches 6 Secure existing outdoor sports pitches for the long term by obtaining Protection of existing open space designation in the emerging Local Development Framework. 7 Keep under review the layout of some adult pitches to meet changing needs as youth or mini usage increases. 8 Positively work with the Extending Schools initiative to open up school facilities to the community where appropriate. 9. Positively work with the Universities to open up facilities to the community where appropriate. 10. Audit, assess need and bring forward action plan for athletics, bowls, golf and tennis. 11. To develop an indoor sports facility action plan to enhance the outdoor sports action plan as they are often interlinked. 1.8 Other associated strategies There are a number of other strategies associated with open space The Council has revised the Play Strategy in tandem with the Open Space Open Space Strategy for the Canterbury district

8 Strategy. There are significant overlaps with regards fixed play areas (playgrounds) and casual play The fixed play areas have been assessed using the following agreed criteria; Gaps in provision - based on audit and mapping, play value, disability access, risk management, child poverty based on national indices and community engagement. The fixed play assessment criteria is available in appendix A summary of the key play issues is attached in appendix The Stour Riverside Strategy will provide an opportunity to connect and enhance land adjacent to the River Stour in terms of access for people and wildlife. It requires a coordinated approach from a number of agencies, partners and the community to develop this opportunity The Canterbury district Walking and Cycling Strategy key aim is to: Improve safety and accessibility for pedestrians, cyclists, mobility impaired people and wheelchair users, to encourage and promote walking and cycling as part of an integrated transport strategy focusing on the needs of those travelling to work, college, school, shop, or other amenities and help reduce car dependency The strategy identifies key strategic cycle routes that link closely to open space green corridors. The primary function will be cycling but it will also benefit footpaths, wildlife and provide links to other open space The green corridors priorities are the enhancement of the Kent Coastal cycleway from Reculver to Seasalter plus the development of new cycle routes from Bridge to Canterbury, Faversham to Canterbury, Herne Bay to Canterbury and Chartham to Canterbury The council and partners are developing an Allotment Strategy as a standalone strategy due to the complex nature of legal issues associated with allotments. 1.9 Putting people s needs first identifying local needs Building upon the 2004 strategy consultation outcomes, which focused on the concerns for safety and cleanliness plus increased opportunities for wildlife, Canterbury City Council undertook extensive community consultation in three phases The first phase took place in the autumn 2008 and included specific consultation with groups that are harder to reach, young people and a stakeholder event attended by over 60 community groups and agencies. This helped shape the vision, policy aims and objectives. It identified key issues and themes for the second stage consultation The second stage was held in early 2009 and took the form of general online consultation and consultation with the community panel. This resulted in nearly 1,000 respondents. Open Space Strategy for the Canterbury district

9 1.9.4 The results of the consultation fed into the draft Open Space Strategy for Canterbury District The draft document was made available to the public online for general consultation, circulated to key partners for comment and presented to public meetings throughout July, August and September The results of this phase of consultation were fed into the final adopted strategy A consultation report is attached in appendix 5. A summary of the community consultation findings are illustrated below with actions highlighted in bold. Parks and open space are highly valued action protect and enhance parks. Visiting parks and open space are some of the most popular leisure activities in the district action promote usage for all Parks and open space are visited by people of all ages and backgrounds action promote usage for all There is recognition that existing quality open space must be protected - action - protect open space That new development should stimulate open space to meet the growing demand, action - use of standards and developer contributions That fixed play areas need to be safe, inclusive and local action - deliver priority lists That open space needs to be accessible (local) and provide biodiversity links action - protect and develop existing with community groups with biodiversity to the fore. There needs to be improved promotion of open space action - promote appropriate usage There needs to be increased community safety in open space action - improve reporting of issues and work with partners to improve community safety. There needs to be increased activities for young people. action - promote appropriate usage Section 1 key issues Recognise the strengths of the existing strategy Continue to adopt PPG 17 process, typologies and CABE guidance Respond to new identified challenges There is a desire for local safe provision There needs to be an increase in promoting existing open space New housing must meet the growing demand for open space Open Space Strategy for the Canterbury district

10 2 Vision, policy aims and objectives 2.1 Introduction The vision, policy aim and objectives have been developed from the 2004 to 2009 strategy plus current research and consultation and where discussed at the stakeholder event in October Strategic Vision, aims and objectives The strategic vision is: To develop an interconnected network of diverse, high quality open spaces which meet the needs of local people and make a significant contribution to raising the quality of life for all residents and visitors to the Canterbury district The vision sits comfortably with the published South East Plan reference to Green Infrastructure as a network of green spaces and natural elements (including water) with, and between, our built environments. Green Infrastructure is multi-functional, it serves a wide range of purposes, including: Creating or enhancing a distinct sense of place Provision of recreation opportunities Preservation and enhancement of biodiversity Sustainable transport routes Improved water resource and flood management Contribution to climate change adaptation and mitigation The strategic policy aim is: Aspire to protect and enhance the existing quality of our open space and promote its usage Aspire to quality policy Canterbury district has some high quality areas of open space from Westgate Gardens in Canterbury City to The Blean Woodlands and the Coast It is important to aspire to deliver quality in the future whether it is via directly managed open space, or seeking Charter Marks such as Green Flag Status or designing in quality open space in new developments. All new proposals or enhancements should consider sustainability and quality in their design. The value of biodiversity cannot be under estimated in all types of open space Protect policy It is vital that the existing open space is protected from development. For instance, a semi-natural (or un-managed) space may look ripe for development but in fact is a key piece of open space from a biodiversity point of view An emerging issue is ensuring that local open space wherever possible is linked to other areas of open space. This is one of the principles of Green Infrastructure Therefore the removal of one piece of open space may have significant impacts elsewhere. Open Space Strategy for the Canterbury district

11 2.2.8 Enhance policy It is important that a strategy lays out a way forward to enhance the open space for future generations. Building upon the previous open space strategy assessment of access, quantity, quality and value we have refreshed into a programme or priorities of projects for each typology. Some are enhancements and some new provision to fill identified gaps in provision. The priority lists will be the focus for resources of time, energy, funding and partnership working The delivery of projects may be community led, partnership based or developed by the Council Equally, it is important that open space is a key design component in largescale developments and regeneration projects. A good example is the potential Wincheap Regeneration project, where the floodplain and grazing marsh of the Stour River need to be protected. Any proposed open space need s to be designed to link in with and compliment the surrounding area. This reflects the importance of designing new areas in sympathy with the existing environment Promote policy It is important that local people use their local open space as well as promoting open space to visitors. The East Kent Local Strategic Partnership recognises open space as an economic asset as a tourist attraction. Therefore we should enhance appropriate access, develop sites suitable for activity and promote appropriate use of the open space in the district It is important that we promote local areas to local people. If local people are using their local open space they will value it more and aspire to high quality. It is part of developing community cohesion, civic pride and a sense of place The fostering of Community Ownership enabling and supporting community groups is an important part of the strategy and the delivery of the vision The four policy aims flow through the rest of the strategy into the objectives and are headings in the action plan The following objectives received strong support at the stakeholder event in October There was a focus on promoting existing open space provision so promote objective was included at the expense of the draft inspire objective. (see consultation report appendix 5). Aspire for quality policy objectives 1 Provide high quality open space. 2 Provide quality open space fit for purpose. 3 Maintain safe and accessible open space. Protect policy objectives 4 Protect existing open space through planning policy. 5 Protect existing open space through general policy and strategic links. Enhance policy objectives 6 Seek to enhance open space via use of the priority lists. 7 Seek to develop partnerships to maximise opportunities to fill the gaps in provision and enhance open space. Open Space Strategy for the Canterbury district

12 Promote policy objectives 8 Actively promote appropriate usage of open space 9 Actively involve communities in decision making, developing and managing open space locally. 10 Recognise and reward community led projects The ten specific objectives inform the action plans. Section 2 Key issues Vision links closely with national and regional statements on interconnected open space Four key policies: aspire, enhance, protect and promote Objectives and actions flow from these policies Open Space Strategy for the Canterbury district

13 3 Local Context 3.1 Unique Character of the district The district of Canterbury has an abundance of diverse quality open space that is cherished by not only the local residents but also visitors The district comprises the historic city of Canterbury, two seaside towns in Herne Bay and Whitstable plus the rural villages set in a wonderful landscape that includes The Blean Woodland, the Kent Downs Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the Stour valley Canterbury District has 15 nationally important Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs), 3 of which are internationally important as designated Ramsar and Special Protection Area sites (Thanet Coast, Stodmarsh, and The Swale) and two Special Area of Conservation sites (Stodmarsh and Blean). Stodmarsh and Blean Woods are also designated National Nature Reserves. East Blean Woods, Larkey Valley Wood, Yockletts Bank, West Blean and Thornden Woods, Stodmarsh, Ileden and Oxenden Woods, Tankerton Slopes, Thanet Coast, Church Woods, Sturry Pit, Preston Marshes, Lynsore Bottom, Ellenden Wood, Chequers and Old Park, and The Swale. In addition, there are a 49 Local Wildlife Sites of county importance which fall partly or wholly within the Canterbury District Area Canterbury City contains two World Heritage Sites and a high number of listed buildings with the cathedral at its core. It includes a network of green spaces, with Dane John and Westgate Gardens as two principal historic parks and has significant recreational space at Thannington, Victoria Recreation, St Stephens and the Sturry Community Park The Stour River provides a thread West to East through Canterbury City The Victorians developed Herne Bay as a seaside resort. It has a large central multi purpose park, Memorial Park, plus the seafront and beach within the town. On the fringe of Herne Bay there are three significant pieces of open space in Burton Downs, Hampton Pier and Reculver Country Park Whitstable retains its distinctive, small fishing and sailing settlement feel and is a honey pot for tourists in the summer months especially. The only significant park is Whitstable Castle; this is undergoing an upgrade and will provide quality open space when completed in The only significant piece of amenity open space is Tankerton Slopes In Whitstable there are three significant areas of recreational space: Cornwallis Circle, Columbia Avenue, and Westmeads Recreation Ground. However, the beach is also recognised as a special piece of open space In the rural areas most villages contain a central open space, village green or recreation area, which provide opportunities for recreation sport and play. There is access to many areas of woodland, marshland, local nature reserves and general open space The District contains extensive woodland such as Bakers Wood, The Denge Wood whilst The Blean Woodland is of national importance due to its ancient woodland status. The area includes a number of sites protected for their wildlife interest. Open Space Strategy for the Canterbury district

14 3.2 Profile of district A demographic profile of the district is shown in Appendix 6. Compared with other parts of the country the district is generally wealthy, however, there are pockets of deprivation and Canterbury district has an aging population with fewer than average young people. Its population was estimated to be 149,700 in mid year Table 2 illustrates the split in population geographically. Table 2 Canterbury area population Population % of total Canterbury 49,220 33% Herne Bay 38,060 25% Whitstable 32,720 22% Rural areas 29,700 20% Source: ONS 2008 mid year population estimates, KCC The published South East Plan currently allocates an extra 10,200 homes to the area by This would place pressure on land and general infrastructure such as transport, health services and schools. It would have a significant impact on existing open space and new open space provision would be required to meet the increased demand Canterbury itself has a population of approximately 49,220 (2008 ONS midyear estimates). It has a high student population during term time. In 2008 it was estimated that 25,353 students were in the three higher education institutes, of whom 15,056 were full time. These figures do not include the students of Canterbury College because its courses are primarily for students already based in Canterbury and East Kent who commute to the college. Many students live in or near the city and use its facilities. The student population places extra pressure on parks and open space within Canterbury City and affects the demographic profile of Canterbury Indeed, the Student Impact Assessment recognized this and recommended that the facilities of the Universities should be publicized and promoted for the benefit of the wider community whilst not prejudicing the interest of the students. Section 3 key issues Open space plays a vital role in the unique character of the district Need to meet the needs of the community and visitors Open space should be managed and developed with local people Open Space Strategy for the Canterbury district

15 4 Audit of open space 4.1 Key attributes of open space Building upon the strength of the 2004 strategy there are four key attributes of quality open space: accessibility, quantity, plus quality and value Accessibility or how easy is it for people to get to the open space? Accessibility relates to how far people will travel to a site. This distance will differ according to age, the nature of the site, physical barriers to access such as roads or railways, unique event or activity and cost, if any Quantity or how much is there? This is the amount of provision of open space within a defined area. In this study each type of open space has been mapped and the quantity of each type of open space has been calculated as an amount per 1,000 populations. This follows the traditional approach for calculating open space used by Fields in Trust Quality or how good is the open space? Quality is probably the most important attribute of an open space. It is a subjective assessment of whether an open space is fit for purpose or requires enhancement. If a space is of good quality more people will use it. Of all four attributes quality is the one that is most easily changed Value is again a subjective assessment and considers the importance or benefits generated for the locality. 4.2 Mapping of provision and identifying gaps in provision The audit of open space has been mapped, with nationally agreed thresholds applied as show below in table 3 Table 3 Summary of typologies, thresholds, percentage of population within the thresholds and justification of thresholds Typology Parks and Gardens Green corridors Agreed thresholds 2,000 metres Justification of threshold CABE guidance and consultation results focused on local provision 300 metres BRANCH study and consultation focused on local provision Local Standard 0.3 hectares per 1,000 people (3m 2 / person) hectares per 1,000 people (13 17 m2 / person Percentage of households within standards 100% of urban households 86% (62,281 households) Open Space Strategy for the Canterbury district

16 Typology Amenity green space Agreed thresholds 1,000 metres Justification of threshold ANGST and consultation results focused on local provision Local Standard hectares per 1,000 people (13 17 m2 / person Percentage of households within standards 87% (63,317 households) Fixed Play areas LAPs Facilities targeted at 0 to 5 year olds LEAPS Facilities targeted at 5 to 12 year olds NEAPS Facilities targeted at 12 to 18 year olds 400 metres Based on FIT guidance and consultation results focused on local provision 400 metres /up to 15 minutes walk 1,000 metres/up to 30 minutes walk Based on FIT guidance and consultation results focused on local provision Based on FIT guidance and consultation results focused on local provision 0.3 hectares per 1,000 people (3m 2 / person) 12% (8,618 households) 20% (14,637 households) 82% (59,604 households) Semi natural and natural open space 1,000 metres Based on ANGST guidance and consultation results focused on local provision 4.0 hectares per 1,000 people (40 2 / person) 78% (56,610 households) Outdoor sports pitches 1,000 metres Based on FIT guidance and consultation results focused on local provision 0.87 hectares per 1,000 people (9m 2 / person) 64% (46,689 households) Open Space Strategy for the Canterbury district

17 Note: ANGST is Access to Natural Green Space standard The purpose of the mapping exercise is to show current provision and to identify gaps in provision for each typology. Amenity green spaces Southern section of Wincheap ward and Barton ward in Canterbury plus coastal wards (Reculver, Heron, West Bay, Swalecliffe, Tankerton, Harbour, Seasalter) as beaches do fulfil all the requirements of amenity open space. Green corridors Chartham to Canterbury, Herne Bay to Canterbury, Faversham to Canterbury (Via Blean) and Bridge to Canterbury Fixed play areas Chislet, Bossingham, Tankerton, Reculver and Lower Hardres Outdoor sports pitches Canterbury, Herne Bay and Whitstable For further details on the audit of Canterbury district open space see appendix In addition on there are district wide maps for each typology, the Landscape Character and Biodiversity Appraisal map, ward maps that include all typologies in that ward and a district wide map of open space is being developed. The ward maps include issues and priorities in that ward With regards quality and value national assessment criteria has been used to assess open space, see appendix 8. The quality and value scoring for each site assessed is available as background information on request The quality and value assessments have resulted in identifying four categories of open space, these have been linked to the strategy policy aims: A - High quality/low value note none of these identified, B - High quality/high value protect these sites, C Low quality/low value - low priority for enhancement and D -Low quality/high value high priority for enhancement New sites can assessed in the future and policy aims applied. Section 4 key issues Key attributes remain accessibility, quantity, quality and value. Consultation focused need on local provision. By and large the district is well served for quantity of open space Open space provision needs to be enhanced to retain quality and value Open Space Strategy for the Canterbury district

18 5 Setting and applying local standards 5.1 Setting local standards Building upon the 2004 strategy it is important that local information is used to set standards. Having reviewed appropriate national guidance as well as local information there is a view to aspire to a Canterbury district open space quality standard: There should be a high quality park in each town. There should be a range of licensed event spaces in each town Everyone should have access to a space where children can play within 300 metres of their home (this includes amenity open space) There should be 1.3 hectares of amenity open space for every thousand people. All open spaces should reach minimum quality standards cleaner, safer greener Open space and play spaces in new developments should be designed to current national guidance. 5.2 Applying local standards The Canterbury district open space quality standards have been applied to the quality and value assessment tables to form priority lists. The priority lists will be used as a tool to focus resources of funding, time, energy to develop projects to enhance identified areas or fill identified gaps in provision. The priority lists are available as follows: Parks and gardens appendix 9 Green corridors appendix 10 Amenity green space appendix 11 Fixed play areas appendix 12 Semi natural appendix 13 Outdoor sports provision appendix To achieve the Canterbury district Open Space Quality Standards there is a need to find solutions to the identified gaps / shortfall in provision, this will be challenging and can only be achieved through partnership working with the community, voluntary organisations, agencies and the various Councils The priority lists will act as a focus for ongoing enhancement work Section 5 key issues Local standards are important to local people Filling the gaps will be challenging and needs to be addressed through partnership work. Priorities have been identified to form a work programme Open Space Strategy for the Canterbury district

19 6 Delivery 6.1 Issues Implementing the strategy will have a far-reaching impact on the quality of life of the residents in and visitors to the district. Some key issues are. Funding constraints At the time of writing the economic outlook for the period of this strategy is challenging for all partners involved in delivering the strategy: local authorities, statutory partners, contractors, local business and community groups. Canterbury City Council capital and revenue funding is subject to budgetary constraints and this could impact on the delivery of the actions plans District wide The strategy is a district wide strategy, not a Canterbury City Council strategy. In addition Canterbury City Council does not own all the public open space and needs to manage expectations. For instance, a community desire to open up school playing fields is not within the control of the council. Canterbury City Council is working with schools and Kent County Council via discussion and influence but school governors and Head Teachers by and large manage their own sites Partnership working The key to the delivery of the strategy is partnership working. Some good examples are The Blean Initiative woodland project (with Kent Wildlife Trust, Natural England, Forestry Commission, Woodland Trust and RSPB), the Seasalter Levels Partnership (with Swale Borough Council, Natural England, and RSPB), partnership with residents for The Friends of Duncan Down, and with The Friends of Prospect Field and management of Reculver Country Park through partnership with Kent Wildlife Trust Partnerships can be strategic such as the East Kent LSP or more local and action orientated, such as Sturry Road Community Park, the Friends of Memorial Park or Whitstable Castle Trust. The common thread between these partnerships is: Agreed shared objectives Passion to deliver those shared objectives It should be noted that external funding opportunities often focus on partnership working as a key criteria to a successful application. Pressure from housing growth The published South East plan allocates 10,200 houses to the district by This will increase pressure on open space in two ways: the houses may be built on existing open space as they may not be all accommodated within the current urban area, the increased population will generate increased demand for open space. Therefore the council needs to use the open space strategy standards to include open space in the layout of major developments and also lever in section 106 funding to enhance local open space to meet the increased demand. Open Space Strategy for the Canterbury district

20 6.1.8 At the time of writing the Government are consulting on a review of section 106 funding and the Community Infrastructure Levy may be implemented within the timescale of this strategy. Community safety The fear of crime in an open space is a constant issue with the public. There is a view that encouraging the reporting of crime generators such as vandalism, litter and graffiti will generally help improve the quality of life in general. The aim is that resources will be focused on areas where Anti Social Behaviour and crime are reported. Also new developments will be designed to minimise crime and anti-social behaviour from the outset. There is a need to address some misconceptions especially about young people hanging around. Therefore the fear of crime may start to be addressed. Health and well-being Opportunities for people to engage in physical exercise can assist in improving general health targets. In relation to children and young people it can contribute and promote their educational and social development A diverse range of facilities and activities can contribute to the general quality of life in the community. The Sport England Active People survey (2007) indicated that walking and cycling are the most popular activities in the district. We are working with the local health agencies to develop health projects in open space. Environment Integrating the principles of the open space strategy to aspire, protect, enhance and promote into new developments will encourage sustainable development that complements and retains the natural environment and biodiversity of the area. Tourism Quality open space can be enjoyed by local families and visitors alike. The landscape and environment of Canterbury district offers tourism opportunities whether it is at the coast or inland. In addition, quality open space can be a venue for events that contribute to the local economy by attracting visitors Potential Reservoir A reservoir at Broad Oak has been discussed for a number of years. At the time of writing, the South East Water draft plan is at a public enquiry stage. A reservoir could have a number of positive and negative implications for the district. If it goes ahead, it would have a major, district wide impact on landscape, character, recreational opportunities, bio-diversity, transport links and tourism The strategy recognises the importance of the reservoir project and the need for Canterbury City Council to be engaged in the enquiry on the South East water plan to maximise opportunities and reduce negative implications for the district. Village greens Kent County Council are the responsible body for the registration of Village Greens, including holding and correcting the register. Canterbury City Council is responsible for the protection of registered Village Greens from encroachment. Encroachment onto land designated Village Green may be Open Space Strategy for the Canterbury district

21 challenged by the appropriate local authority using Section 12 of the Enclosure Act (1857), or Section 29 of the Commons Act (1876), which may be used to protect the land from development that would obstruct use of the land for leisure or amenity purposes. Private ownership of registered Village Green land does not negate the right of the public to be able to access it to partake in lawful sports and pastimes, which may be acquired as of right after 20 years of use (without force, secrecy, or permission) by a significant number of the inhabitants of a locality For further issues see summary in appendix Rationale The action plan focuses on addressing issues raised in consultation and delivering the vision, policy aim and objectives. The strategy should deliver improvements. However, there is also a need to be pragmatic in a time of limited resources of what we can and what we cannot achieve by Key performance indicators The Open Space Strategy contributes to a number of National Performance Indicators, namely: NI 3 civic participation in the local area NI 5 overall satisfaction with the local area NI 6 participation in local volunteering NI 17 perceptions of anti-social behaviour NI 21 to deal with concerns about anti-social behaviour and crime NI 110 young people s participation in positive activities NI 195 Improved street and environmental cleanliness graffiti, litter, detritus and fly posting NI 196 Improved street and environmental cleanliness fly tipping NI 197 Improved local biodiversity active management of local sites NI 199e children and young people s satisfaction with parks and play areas The strategy has stimulated local drivers that have been agreed in consultation with stakeholders and communities, see table 4 below. Table 4 Open Space Strategy for the Canterbury District No Local Indicator Lead Reporting Targets Baseline 2008/09 figures LI I Obtain a Green Flag for a park in each urban area Outdoor Leisure / Countryside Annually 3 by LI 2 Retain existing 2 Green Countryside Annually 2 2 Flags LI 3 Retain Coastal Awards Foreshore Annually 2 2 LI 4 Deliver a rolling programme of open space and fixed play enhancement via the Outdoor Leisure Annually 3 per year - Open Space Strategy for the Canterbury district

22 LI 5 LI 6 LI 7 LI 8 LI 9 LI 10 LI 11 LI 12 LI 13 LI 14 priority lists Develop projects with local communities and partners to fill the identified gaps in open space provision Monitor environmental services contract to ensure high standards of maintenance and cleanliness for city council open space play areas Support the implementation of the Developers Contribution Fund Supplementary Planning Document. Support community groups to manage an area of open space and obtain appropriate Green status Incorporate Bio-diversity into the design of open space in appropriate developments Implement the agreement with RSPB to manage the and enhance Seasalter Marshes Advise on implementation of statutory duty for biodiversity under NERC Act 2006 Review open space byelaws Coordinate and promote concessions in open spaces Publish updated action plans quarterly on website Outdoor Leisure / Countryside Annually 1 by Street scene Annually 96% 95% Planning Annually As required - Outdoor Leisure Annually 1 new group per year Countryside Annually 1 per year 1 Countryside Annually ongoing 1 Countryside Annually As required 1 Legal Annually 2 per year 0 Property Services /Outdoor Leisure Annually 15 by Outdoor Leisure Quarterly Ongoing 4 times per year Action plan The action plans have been developed in line with each objective and linked to the performance indicators. The aim is to make the action plan SMART. (Specific, Measured, Achievable Realistic Time related) Open Space Strategy for the Canterbury district