Policy information sourced from the Barking & Dagenham Local Plan

DMS 1 Protecting and enhancing existing facilities

1.

Development proposals involving the net loss of existing social and community facilities (excluding sports facilities, playing fields, and recreational buildings and land) will be resisted, unless:

  • the existing facility is being re-provided, whether on site or in a nearby location, that would continue to provide for and enhance the needs of existing local users
  • there is no longer an identified need or demand for the existing use of the facility or use. In such circumstances, the applicant must provide robust documental evidence to demonstrate:
    1. the loss of the facility or use would not lead to a shortfall in provision for the specified use for the community that it serves, and
    2. active marketing has occured over a period of not less than 12 months for its continuous use at a realistic price/rent which is supported by the Council, or
    3. if the facility can be refurbished or used by multi occupiers to prevent the loss.
  • development proposals where the loss of social infrastructure is part of a wider public sector transformation programme are excluded from the requirements set out in Part a, and Part b clause ii and iii (and further detailed in clause 2 below).

2.

The Council will expect applicants to submit competitive marketing evidence in accordance with Part 1 b), which should:

  • outline where and how marketing has been undertaken, with details also provided to demonstrate that the asking rent has been at a realistic rate for the type, size and condition of the property or unit
  • submit a report detailing the level of interest in the property over the agreed marketing period, details of any viewings and offers and details of why any interest had not been taken forward.

3.

Notwithstanding the provisions of Part 1 of this policy, development proposals that would result in the net loss of sports and recreational buildings and land, including playing fields will not be considered acceptable, unless it meets the requirements set out in the NPPF (or its updated equivalent) and by Policy DMNE 1 of this Local Plan. The Council will consult with Sport England where required on any proposed loss of facilities.

4.

Extensions to existing schools should demonstrate there is an identified need to support the expansion and that it would not result in any shortfall of child play space overall.

For more information please see the Barking & Dagenham Local Plan