Policy information sourced from the Brent Local Plan
BSI1: Social Infrastructure & Community Facilities
Existing Social Infrastructure
Existing social infrastructure and community facilities will be protected and retained unless it can be demonstrated that:
- The existing facility is not required in its current use and there is no demand for any other suitable community use on the site; and
- The loss of social infrastructure would not result in a shortfall in provision of that use; or
- A replacement facility that would better meet the needs of existing users is provided; or
- Redevelopment is part of an agreed programme of social infrastructure reprovision to ensure continued delivery of social infrastructure and related services, as evidenced through a service delivery/estates strategy
In reference to criteria a and b, where there is no longer a community need for the facility’s current use, the potential of re-using or redeveloping the existing site for an alternative social infrastructure use, particularly educational, religious, sports and leisure facilities or specialist housing, must be considered before other uses are pursued.
New Social Infrastructure
Proposals for new or enhanced social infrastructure facilities, including the consolidation of existing facilities, will be supported by the Council where:
- easily accessible by public transport, walking and cycling, preferably in town centres or Growth Areas;
- located within the community they are intended to serve;
- provided in flexible and adaptable buildings;
- ideally co-located with other social infrastructure uses; and
- maximising wider community benefit, through if necessary, requiring formal community use agreements.
For more information please see the Brent Local Plan