We can undertake a comprehensive local assessment to help you to plan positively and creatively to ensure that there is adequate provision of accessible, high quality greenspaces, sport and recreation facilities to meet the needs of local communities.

As part of our assessment we will:

• Review existing national, regional and local plans and strategies and assess the effectiveness of existing planning policies and provision standards.
• Establish the views of local communities through consultation to identify attitudes to existing provision and establish people’s expectations and needs. From this work we will seek to develop a qualitative ‘vision’ for the type of open spaces, sport and recreation facilities which communities want to see in their areas.
• Undertake an audit of existing provision including all existing open spaces and sport and recreation facilities within a local authority’s area. This includes an assessment of the quality and value of each type of provision.

Projects include:

Erewash Open Space, Sport and Recreation Study

An audit of the quantity, quality and value of open space, sport and recreation facilities in the borough of Erewash. Community consultation with residents, stakeholders and young people to determine a local vision for future provision and develop new standards to be incorporated into the Local Development Framework.

Client: Erewash Borough Council

Playing Pitch Assessment for Tewkesbury Borough Council

Ashley Godfrey Associates was commissioned by Tewkesbury Borough Council to undertake an assessment of playing pitch provision within a 3 mile radius of the M & G Sports Ground on the south-western edge of the built-up area of Cheltenham.

The Council required evidence for a public Inquiry into proposals to develop former sports pitches for housing. An assessment of playing pitch provision in Tewkesbury and Cheltenham areas was undertaken. This demonstrated that the loss of sports pitches at the M&G site had resulted in a shortfall in provision in the area and that the developers should be required to replace the lost pitches.

Client: Tewkesbury Borough Council

Community Needs and Open Spaces Study (with RBA research)

A comprehensive research study of the needs and aspirations of the local community in relation to local open space of various types. This included an audit of open space provision and the development of locally determined standards. The results of this study have contributed to the Council’s Green Space strategy by identifying unmet and under-met need. We provided information about usage, attitudes and values in relation to parks and open spaces, and developed of a vision and strategic objectives.

Client: Thurrock Council

Parks Strategy for Cambridge

An audit of parks, commons and open spaces including quality and accessibility assessment was undertaken. A Vision for the future of Parks was developed following a series of workshops with key stakeholders and user groups. The strategy and action plan that emerged is currently being implemented.

Client: Cambridge City Council.

Open Space Strategy, Poplar Area Neighbourhood

Audit of open space, play and sports provision in accordance with PPG17 guidance. Development of strategy to underpin Neighbourhood Renewal Fund Programme for Poplar, Bow, Lansbury and Mile End. (for Leaside Regeneration, LB Tower Hamlets, Poplar HARCA.)

Client: London Borough of Tower Hamlets