Alternative provision of open space or recreational facilities

It is also recognised that development can on occasion provide an opportunity to recreate open space or outdoor recreational facilities in an alternative location to substitute for the loss of an existing open space or facility. This approach will only be considered for areas of 2 hectares or less and a key factor in assessing proposals will be the accessibility of the proposed new space to all the users of the existing space. It should not be assumed, however, that the Department will automatically grant permission when alternative provision is proposed. Existing open space is often of considerable value to the amenity, character and biodiversity of a local area and therefore worthy of protection in its own right.