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(CABE) and CLG to develop a dialogue with the development industry to encourage
wider adoption of this standard as a minimum in all new developments. It will also be the
starting point for the new good practice guidance on planning for open space, sport and
recreation.
5.11 As set out in the Children’s Plan (paragraph 1.53), DCSF and DCMS will work with CLG in
partnership with registered social landlords to improve the quality of play environments
in some of the most deprived areas.
5.12
We will also explore how policies on social housing can be used to support better opportunities for
play. For example Neighbourhoods Green, funded by CLG, publishes guidance to promote wildlife
on housing estates in which it suggests this can empower residents and promote community
cohesion. Projects like this offer opportunities for children to experience the natural environment,
which we know has significant benefits for mental health, and improving the outdoor environment
for children provides a focus around which the whole community can unite.
Green space
5.13
5.14
5.15
High quality green spaces are good for people and places. CLG is committed to improving the
quality of parks and green spaces, so that everyone has access to good quality green spaces
close to where they live. This includes developing an urban green space action plan that will
continue to build capacity and skills within local authorities to embed a strategic approach to
management and engage effectively with children and young people.
The Green Flag Award Scheme is the national standard for parks and green spaces and helps
drive up quality across the country as more spaces reach the standard. CLG will continue to
support its growth and its role as a national standard to drive up standards of management and
maintenance.
CLG is developing a green space data-base and live mapping tool to strengthen the knowledge
base related to Planning Policy Guidance 17 30 and allow the sharing of a full range of green
space information. It will involve all stakeholders and local authorities in ensuring that
information is used and maintained, and that their views are captured.
30 For details of PPG17 see Communities and Local Government web site at http://www.communities.gov.uk/planningandbuilding/planning/
planningpolicyguidance/planningpolicystatements/planningpolicyguidance/229224/
Fair Play: A consultation on the play strategy
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