Client: London Borough of Harrow

Project: PPG17 Open Space, Sport & Recreation Study

We were approached by the London Borough of Harrow to update the Council’s existing open space study and ensure compliance with PPG17 requirements.
The primary consultation vehicle for this study was a comprehensive household survey. A questionnaire was drawn up which covered all the different open space and recreational typologies to an appropriate level of detail. We also identified geographical sub-areas for analysis and comparison purposes, and used a structured sample and data weighting to ensure adequate statistical validity at both borough-wide and more detailed geographical levels. Our expert consultation associate, Phil Back, worked closely with us to ensure a robust and reliable dataset was secured.

A definitive list of sites, which formed the basis of the audit, was taken from the records held by the authority. This covered sites of a wide range of sizes, down to 0.1 Ha and lower in some instances. However, this was augmented by examination of other sources, including on the ground fieldwork, which generated additional sites, and occasional changes of boundary and typological definition, all of which were mapped on the council’s GIS database.
We conducted 383 site visits to evaluate the quality and value of open spaces, using assessment sheets with criteria which we have developed over a number of years and which are bespoke to each type of open space. A small audit team was deployed for this work, so as to minimize subjectivity in these assessments, and the results were also moderated to ensure consistency across the range of scores.

Quantity data were produced by calculation using the GIS shape file for each space; multi-functional spaces were subdivided between their respective functions so as to fit within the PGG17 classification system. Accessibility data was produced using the GIS layers for each type of space, with appropriate catchment areas drawn round each space, and due allowance made for major barriers to movement, such as motorways, railways and watercourses which people would not normally cross to reach an open space.

The audit data were processed for each type of space to determine a range of quality and value scores from which a median could be calculated; this was then used as an initial benchmark site for the typology in question, as required by PPG17, to begin the process of setting quality and value standards.

We then brought the audit and the community consultation data together to generate suggested provision standards, based on existing provision and public perception of that provision, also bringing into play any relevant external policy guidance. Our proposed standards were examined in a workshop setting with representatives from relevant Council departments which ensured that they were consistent with other Council policies, and acceptable within the local political and financial context.

Please click here to view our comprehensive final report.