The Mayor of London and CABE Space have today (29 September) published for consultation new planning guidance that encourages local authorities to make best use of our parks and public open spaces. The Open Space Strategies guidance will be of use to all local authorities, whether they already have an open space strategy or if they are putting one together for the first time. The updated guidance provides advice on assessing the quantity and quality of open spaces and on identifying the needs of local communities and other users of open spaces, including wildlife. Open Space Strategies is an updated amalgamation of two separate guides that were produced by CABE Space and the GLA in 2004. Boris Johnson, Mayor of London said:
“In the face of new environmental, social and economic challenges, preserving our open spaces has never been more important for a good quality of life and a more sustainable future. The new guidance will be an invaluable tool to help local authorities plan, design, manage and maintain their open spaces. The preparation and publication by the London boroughs of an up to date Open Space Strategy will be one of the matters I will consider when assessing their Development Plan Documents for general conformity with the London Plan.” Open Space Strategies gives advice to councils on how to prepare and implement their Open Space Strategies using practical examples of different approaches. It is based on updated best practice from the London Plan and lessons learnt from work CABE Space has done with local authorities across England over the past five years. Open Space Strategies can be downloaded from the GLA website at www.london.gov.uk/mayor/strategies/sds/open_space.jsp

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2 October 2008
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