Local List Glossary

When is this required?

• proposals for residential and non-residential proposals within Use Classes: E (a-c) (formally A1/2/3), sui-generis, as relating to drinking establishments and hot food takeaways (formally A4,A5), E(g) (formally B1), B2, B8 and C1, that generate a need for open space; or
• proposals that would result in the loss, relocation, or would prejudice the value of existing open space.

Note: open space can be taken to mean all open space of public value, including not just land, but areas of water, which offer important opportunities for sport and recreation and can also act as a visual amenity.

What information is required?

• applications that generate a need for open space will require a statement that details the quantity of open space to be provided by typology (allotments, amenity and natural green space, play space (children), play space (youth), parks, sport and recreation grounds) in accordance with the standards set out in Table 13.1 of the North Devon and Torridge Local Plan, with accompanying plans setting out the location of each type of open space. Unless otherwise established through pre-application advice open space requirements will be expected to be provided on site, variance from which will need to be justified.  
• where open space and/or associated facilities are to be provided, on or off site, the assessment should include a statement that sets out the maintenance specification for the works and how and by whom the facility will be initially installed and maintained to that specification for at least 10 years.
• applications which propose the loss or prejudice to the use of open space will be required to provide an evidenced statement which justifies its loss or reduced capacity on the basis of:

1. the open space or buildings is surplus to requirements; or
2. the loss resulting from the proposed development would be replaced by equivalent or better provision in terms of quality and quantity in a suitable location; or
3. the development is for alternative sports/recreation provision, the benefits of which outweigh the loss of the current or former use.

Relevant policy and reason for the document

North Devon and Torridge Local Plan 2011-2031: http://consult.torridge.gov.uk/portal/planning/localplan/adoption/

North Devon and Torridge Local Plan ST23: Infrastructure

North Devon and Torridge Local Plan DM09: Safeguarding Green Infrastructure

North Devon and Torridge Local Plan DM10: Green Infrastructure Provision

National Planning Policy Framework, paragraph 97: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/national-planning-policy-framework--2