National Planning Policy Framework – Extracts

The new National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), has given some hope that local authorities and developers will not be able to trample over our countryside without giving residents at least some rights in combating some of the more outlandish proposals, such as building on Blue Mountain Golf Course in Binfield. The whole of the NPPF can be downloaded from this web site on the downloads section at http://www.narcag.co.uk/downloads/

Some of the more relevent sections in the new Act include:

Extract from new National Planning Policy Framework

74.       Existing open space, sports and recreational buildings and land. Including playing fields, should not be built on unless:

  •  an assessment has been undertaken which has clearly shown the open  space, buildings or land to be surplus to requirements; or
  •  the loss resulting from the proposed development would be replaced by equivalent or better provision in terms of quantity and quality in a suitable location; or
  •  the development is for alternative sports and recreational provision, the needs for which clearly outweigh the loss.

76.       Local communities through local and neighbourhood plans should be able to identify  for special protection green areas of particular importance to them. By designating land as Local Green Space local communities will be able to rule out new development other than in very special circumstances. Identifying land as Local Green Space should therefore be consistent with the local planning of sustainable   development and complement investment in sufficient homes, jobs and other essential services. Local Green Spaces should only be designated when a plan is prepared or reviewed, and be capable of enduring beyond the end of the plan period.

77.       The Local Green Space designation will not be appropriate for most green areas or open space. The designation should only be used:

  •  where the green space is in reasonably close proximity to the community it serves;
  •  where the green area is demonstrably special to a local community and holds a particular local significance, for example because of its beauty, historic significance, recreational value (including as a playing field), tranquillity or richness of its wild life; and
  •  where the green area concerned is local in character and is not an extensive tract of land

78.       Local policy for managing development within a Local Green Space should be consistent with policy for Green Belts.