Policy information sourced from the Hounslow Local Plan Part 1

GB2 - OPEN SPACE

Our approach

We will protect and enhance Local Open Space.

We will achieve this by

  • Designating and protecting Local Open Space as shown on the Policies Map, in line with the NPPF and the London Plan;
  • Protecting and enhancing Local Open Space, addressing deficiencies in quality, quantity and access;
  • Maintaining the supply of Local Open Space to meet the needs of the borough’s growing population, by expecting on-site provision of publicly accessible open space, particularly in major new developments in areas of deficiency;
  • Encouraging the provision of an appropriate balance and mix of open space types specific to meet needs in different parts of the borough, with specific reference to increasing the provision of parks and gardens;
  • Protecting quiet and tranquil areas of Local Open Space that are relatively undisturbed by noise and are valued for their recreation amenity attributes; and
  • Working with partners, friends groups, other stakeholders and the general public to improve and enhance the quality of and access to Local Open Space.

We will expect development proposals to

  • Protect existing Local Open Space from development, especially where it would lead to a deficiency in publicly accessible open space, unless it satisfies the criteria for such development in the NPPF in that: it has been assessed as clearly surplus to requirements; or it would be replaced by equivalent or better provision in a suitable location; or the development is for alternative sports and recreational provision, the need for which clearly outweighs the loss;
  • Avoid the loss of or encroachment upon Local Open Space, or intrusion into an open aspect. Development ancillary to the open space use must preserve its predominantly open character; and
  • Enhance the provision of publicly accessible Local Open Space in the borough, especially in areas of open space deficiency as identified on an annual basis through Annual Monitoring Reports Major developments should achieve this through onsite provision wherever possible, particularly in areas of substantial change and intensification.

For more information please see the Hounslow Local Plan Part 1