Playing fields whether owned by public, private or voluntary organisations are of special  significance  for their recreational, amenity and open space value. The Council recognises that it is important to have sufficient playing fields to cater for existing demand and increased participation. Playing fields can be vulnerable to development pressures and once lost are extremely difficult and expensive to replace. The loss of such facilities could have an adverse effect on participation in sport and create further areas of deficiency.

 

The Council will resist development involving the reduction or loss of existing playing fields, including those within educational establishments, unless the proposal is for minor development ancillary to the use of the site as a playing field, such as changing rooms or car parking, or a replacement playing field or fields of equivalent or better quantity and quality can be provided in a suitable location accessible to current and potential users.

 

The Council will encourage the provision and enhancement of playing fields and sports pitches where the proposals are compatible with other policies in the Local Plan.