Policy OS1 – Protection of open space

The council will support the retention and improvement of existing open space throughout the district area. There will be a general presumption in favour of retaining all such lands and uses, including protecting any character and amenity value, whether specifically identified in the LDP or not, unless the lands are identified in the LDP for an alternative use. Development resulting in the loss of open space on lands specifically identified for these uses in the LDP and/or the council's Open Spaces Strategy and/or GBIP will only be considered in exceptional circumstances where it is clearly shown that redevelopment will bring substantial community benefits that decisively outweigh the loss of the open space. An exception may also be permitted where it is demonstrated that the loss of open space will have no significant detrimental impact on the amenity, character or biodiversity of an area and where either of the following circumstances occur: a. In the case of an area of open space of 2 hectares or less, alternative provision is made by the developer which is at least as accessible to current users and at least equivalent in terms of size, usefulness, attractiveness, safety and quality; or b. In the case of playing fields and sports pitches within settlement limits, it is demonstrated by the developer that the retention and enhancement of the facility can only be achieved by the development of a small part of the existing space - limited to a maximum of 10% of the overall area - and this will have no adverse effect on the sporting potential of the facility. This exception will be exercised only once. In all circumstances, the council must be satisfied that the loss of any open space would not result in detriment to the overall green infrastructure provision. The presumption against the loss of existing open space will apply irrespective of ownership, public access, physical condition or appearance.