Importance of Open Space, Sport and Outdoor Recreation

Government recognises that open space, sport and outdoor recreation is important to society now and in the future. It supports many cultural, social, economic, health and environmental benefits. Everyone, particularly children, older people and people with disabilities should have easy access to open space and the opportunity to participate in sport and outdoor recreational activity or simply enjoy and have contact with nature. This is recognised in the Regional Development Strategy 2035 (RDS) which highlights the need to provide adequate provision for green and blue infrastructure in cities, towns and neighbourhoods, and new developments.