3GOpen space strategy

1

A planning authority is to prepare and publish an open space strategy.

2

An open space strategy is to set out a strategic framework of the planning authority’s policies and proposals as to the development, maintenance and use of green infrastructure in their district, including open spaces and green networks.

3

An open space strategy must contain—

a

an audit of existing open space provision,

b

an assessment of current and future requirements,

c

any other matter which the planning authority consider appropriate.

4

In this section—

• “green infrastructure” means features of the natural and built environments that provide a range of ecosystem and social benefits,

• “green networks” means connected areas of green infrastructure and open space,

• “open space” means space within and on the edge of settlements comprising green infrastructure or civic areas such as squares, market places and other paved or hard landscaped areas with a civic function.

5

The Scottish Ministers may by regulations—

a

make provision about how planning authorities are to discharge their functions under this section including, in particular—

i

how they conduct an audit under subsection (3)(a), and

ii

how they assess current and future requirements for the purposes of subsection (3)(b),

b

amend subsection (4) by adding a definition or amending or omitting a definition for the time being specified there.

6

For the purposes of this section a national park authority is not a planning authority.