CARRICK SPORT AND RECREATION FACILITIES STRATEGY AND ACTION PLAN
CONTENTS
SECTION PAGE
Introduction 2 Background 2
Aim, objectives and principles 4 Aim 4 Objectives 4 Principles 5
Method 7
Needs assessment 9 Context 9 Summary of identified needs 15
Audit of facilities 18 Research 18 Summary of audit 19 Facility hierarchy 23
Minimum local provision standards 24 Identified shortfalls and key issues 25 Quantity standards per 1,000 people 27
Financial contributions 29 Implementation 29 Commuted sums for maintenance 30 Capital cost of provision 30 Calculation of developer’s contributions 32
Strategic policy options 36
Headline action plan 38 The way forward 39
Appendix 1 – Minimum provision standards 40
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CARRICK SPORT AND RECREATION FACILITIES STRATEGY AND ACTION PLAN
INTRODUCTION
This is the Strategy and (headline) Action Plan for built facilities used for sport and recreation in Carrick. It covers 16 types of facilities, including sports halls, swimming pools, community halls and youth facilities (see ‘Audit of facilities’ below for complete list). This draft strategy has been developed from research and analysis of the provision of built facilities used for sport and recreation in the District. It follows a needs assessment, which was based on a facilities audit and research and considered supply and demand issues. The Assessment was consistent with (and based on) guidance provided in ‘Assessing Needs & Opportunities: A Companion Guide to PPG 17’ (see below).
Carrick District Council (LA) commissioned the study in 2007. Leisure management consultants Knight Kavanagh & Page (KKP) carried out the principal research later in the year. This report sits alongside the open spaces assessment for Carrick.
The Draft Strategy sets out a vision for the next ten years in relation to provision and improvement of built facilities used for sport and recreation, taking into consideration current housing projections and detailed consultation. The ‘Headline’ Action Plan recommends a number of 1-3 years priority projects in the District. It should be recognised that the Strategy and Action Plan provide a direction and framework for improvement of facilities (i.e., a rationale for prioritisation and decision-making) and not the justification and feasibility for an individual project, which will need to be assessed on a facility-by-facility basis, as required.
Background
Carrick is located in central Cornwall and covers an area of 47,242 hectares. It has a population of approximately 87,865 (2001 Census). It is bordered to the East by Restormel and West by Kerrier districts and has two distinctly different and nationally significant coastlines. Carrick has an indices of deprivation (2004) average score ranking of 149th in England (where 1 is most deprived and 354 is least deprived). There are some small ‘pockets’ of deprivation in distinct areas (e.g., Trelander Estate, Truro), which are significant for residents in those areas and are the focus for several interventions.
Transport is a significant local issue with two distinctive dimensions; access to facilities in rural areas is variable and road congestion greatly impacts on journey times (principally during commuting and holiday periods).
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Figure 1: Location of Carrick district
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Other significant characteristics include: f There are 47 settlements in the District ranging in size from less than 200 to 19,540 people, of which 41 contain 39% of Carrick's population and the majority have less than 1,000 people. f Carrick's population grew by 19% between 1981 and 2001. f The proportion of the population over 50 (42%) is 1-3 yearser than the national average (34%). f The proportion of people aged 16-29 (15.6%) is lower than the national average (17.7%) but increased by approximately 3% between 2001 and 2003.
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AIM, OBJECTIVES AND PRINCIPLES
The following aim and objectives have been developed as a result of issues identified by the assessment of the supply and demand for sport and recreation facilities in the District. They link closely to the issues identified in the needs assessment and reflects aspirations to increase levels of participation in sport and recreation. They are also consistent with Carrick Community Strategy by striving to meet the needs of local people and encourage healthy lifestyles.
Aim
To help increase levels of physical activity in Carrick by ensuring that all residents live within acceptable distances of built facilities1 used for sport and recreation.
Objectives
Achievement of the aim will require implementation of a number of strategic objectives: f Create a comprehensive network of facilities (as defined by the minimum provision standards for sport and recreation facilities – see below). The network will be based on facilities managed and operated by the private, public and not- for-profit sectors. f Cater for the needs of residents of new dwellings by developing new and enhancing existing facilities. f Sustain and improve the quality and accessibility of existing sport and recreation facilities. f Minimise the impact of increases in energy costs to facility users. f Increase levels of use of LA managed facilities by physically inactive people.
1 All facilities will offer (at least some) day-time community use, be ‘fit for purpose’ (i.e., able to provide opportunities in activities, and at appropriate standards, for which it is intended), be in at least ‘adequate condition’ (as defined in the minimum provision standards for each type of facility) and provide adequate car parking for peak time usage in a safe and secure location adjacent to the facility(s).
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Principles
Successful application of the objectives will require adherence to a number of principals.
Strategic
1. Provide good quality sport and recreation built facilities. 2. Provide affordable built facilities, which are accessible to all sections of the community. 3. Provide (or support/encourage) new facilities that enhance the appropriate distribution of facilities. 4. Improve access to indoor sports facilities, by: a. Locating new sites near public transport hubs. b. Increasing public transport links to larger sites, especially at weekends and throughout the summer. c. Continuing to enhance partnerships with local education sites. d. Maximising the availability of community space for informal sport and recreation activities. e. Meeting identified gaps in demand. 5. Increase access to ‘free play space’ (e.g., Multi use games areas (MUGAs) and youth facilities). 6. Encourage public bodies to provide places that will contribute to achievement of the Government’s strategy to improve physical activity levels and the health of the nation. 7. Increase public awareness of facilities available for sport and recreation (and opportunities they offer) through appropriately targeted marketing.
Management
Delivery of the strategic objectives will require implementation of a number of management objectives.
7. Improve the quality of built facilities (including ancillary facilities such as car and cycle parking) in a phased (and targeted) programme of investment and support. 8. Use development opportunities to consult with local residents and partners (as appropriate) to increase and/or improve existing provision in line with this strategy by identifying and updating (as appropriate) contemporary sport and recreation needs.
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9. Strive to ensure that demand is clearly identified (including minimal displacement of usage from other sites) and an up-to-date (i.e., no more than five years old) sport and recreational needs assessment underpins development of new facilities. 10. Develop a general package of support (e.g., advise, grants, loans, subsidy, brokering etc.) for management committees, town and parish councils to help with the implementation of proposals emanating from an up-to-date sport and recreation needs assessment. 11. Ensure that, where sites may be lost, through development or closure, facilities of the same or improved standard are provided in similar location(s) to meet the continued needs of residents. 12. Work with and assist partner agencies to provide usable, accessible and viable community buildings and leisure centres. 13. Provide assistance and support to those sport and recreation built facilities that have yet to meet Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) requirements and seek to ensure that facilities are accessible to all residents, as appropriate. 14. Ensure that new or replacement facilities are developed to meet minimum contemporary specifications in the context of length, breadth, lighting, flooring, colour etc. set out by Sport England and its partners. 15. Update, and review, facility details and audit information in a five year rolling programme. 16. Continue to gather the views and opinions of local residents in a five-year rolling programme of research and survey work.
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METHOD
To ensure effective planning of sport and recreation facilities it is essential that a robust and transparent assessment is made of existing facilities and community needs (existing and future). National planning policies for sport and recreation are premised on the view that ‘sport and recreation underpin people’s quality of life’. Planning Policy Guidance 17 (PPG17) aims to deliver networks of accessible, quality sport and recreation facilities, which meet the needs of residents and visitors, are fit for purpose and economically and environmentally sustainable.
The assessment underpinning this strategy is consistent with PPG17 guidance and follows the five-step method advocated in the Companion Guide to PPG17. It is based on an assessment of local need, extensive consultation and an audit of local provision. The types of facilities included in this assessment are: f Athletics f Floodlit multi-use games areas f Golf courses f Indoor and outdoor bowls greens f Indoor and outdoor tennis courts f Indoor swimming pools f Multi sport hub clubs f Non-floodlit multi-use games areas f Recreation ground pavilions/changing f Sports halls f Squash courts f Synthetic turf pitches (STP) f Village and community (small) halls f Youth centres f Youth facilities
The District is divided into analysis areas (which are co-terminous with ward boundaries and based on existing ‘patterns of use’, contemporary studies and perceived catchment areas) to enable more localised assessment of facilities and identification of facility surplus and deficiencies. Use of analysis areas also allows local circumstances and issues to be taken into account as well as providing a structure for development and implementation of future strategies.
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Figure 2: Carrick analysis areas
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C A
B
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The analysis areas for the District are (based on ward boundaries): Key for figure 2
Letter Description A Truro and Threemilestone and environs. B Falmouth and Penryn. C Roseland peninsular and north to Restormel. D North Coast and inland areas.
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NEEDS ASSESSMENT
The Companion Guide to PPG 17, ‘Planning for Open Space Sport and Recreation’, published in July 2002, identifies that a needs assessment should normally “review existing national, regional and local plans and strategies” and consult local communities effectively and “minimise consultation fatigue”. The Carrick sport and recreation facility assessment reviews appropriate documentation, consultation with sport and leisure professionals and utilises information from contemporary research and previous public consultation and research exercises.
Context
The expressed demand and identified need for sport and recreation facilities in Carrick is based on a review of the following documents, information and consultation: f PAT 10. f PPG17 f Game Plan. f Every Child Matters. f Building Schools for the Future. f Choosing Health. f Extended schools. f Single System for Sport. f SW Regional Spatial Strategy. f The South West Regional Plan for Sport. f LA Community Strategy. f LA Local Area Agreement. f LA Council Corporate Plan. f LA Local Plan. f LA Open Spaces Strategy (emerging)
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The implications of the policy context for sport and recreation facility provision in Carrick can be summarised as follows:
Table 1
Policy area Summary and implications
National planning policy PPG 17 provides guidance for local authorities about planning and providing for sport and recreation facilities, in particular the need to undertake a robust quantitative and qualitative audit and the development of rigorously researched local standards of provision. This assessment is consistent with the guidance. National sports policy Government policy provides a general framework to significantly increase levels of participation/physical activity and support for elite sport. Sports facilities in LA should seek to underpin these objectives by creating a network of facilities suitable for community sports development and, where appropriate, elite sport. Other (relevant) national policy Benefits of increasing participation in sport and active recreation are both explicit and implicit in much government policy (e.g., reduction in anti-social behaviour). Government initiatives to increase physical activity (e.g., free swimming) are also significant. Development of a network of appealing, accessible sport and recreation facilities in Carrick should embrace, and demonstrate contribution to, these wider social objectives. Regional planning policy The Regional Spatial Strategy (RSS) identifies that the focus for residential development is key centres, such as Truro. This makes these areas the most likely to secure significant developer contributions (partly as a result of increased demand) for sport and recreation facilities. Regional sports policy Increase participation levels by: f Developing multi-sport hub sites. f Developing local free-play facilities. f Securing developer contributions. f Maintaining existing, and developing new, facilities. Local planning policy Carrick District Local Plan (1998) policy 10B refers to the NPFA 2.4ha/1000 population standard, 10D provides protection to recreational land and policy 12B advocates protection to playing fields. Cornwall Structure Plan (2004) recognises that ‘the existing facilities for tourism and recreation represent a major resource for the economy of Cornwall”. The Threemilestone area (around Treliske Hospital, Truro College, new residential development and Gloweth and the Richard Lander School) as a growth area. Ambitions for this area include an additional 7,000 homes for Carrick by 2016 with a minimum of 35 per cent affordable homes. There is a direct link to PPG17 in terms of ensuring that adequate sport and recreation provision is available. Other (relevant) local strategies CDC’s Corporate Plan sets out the Authority’s ambitions. None relate specifically to sport or recreation, but its aims (amongst other things) include the target to improve health and well being.
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Policy area Summary and implications
Carrick Community Strategy themes that are of significance to sport and recreation facilities relate to health and well being, reducing anti-social behaviour and creating quality living environments. Carrick Local Strategic Partnership is the principal vehicle for delivering Community Strategy targets and aspirations. The Cornwall Local Area Agreement (a three year agreement that sets out a series of local priorities) also focuses on achieving healthier communities, which will require a comprehensive network of sport and recreation facilities.
A comprehensive network of good quality, accessible sport and recreation facilities is significant in helping to deliver local aspirations, particularly those associated with development of new sport and recreation facilities.
The full sport and recreation built facilities needs assessment report 2007 is available from Carrick District Council.
Key local issues
There are six locally significant issues that potentially impact on the provision of sport and recreation facilities in Carrick. These are:
Carrick Leisure Limited (CLL)
CLL is an industrial and provident society that manages and operates two leisure centres and an entertainments venue (Princess Pavilion) on behalf of Carrick District Council as well as a full-size, floodlit, synthetic turf pitch at Penair School, Truro. Its vision is ‘to provide 1-3 years quality leisure services, which are accessible to everyone’. The agreement between Carrick District Council and CLL allows for ‘the continual development and enhancement of leisure facilities’.
CLL has successfully traded as an industrial and provident society since its incorporation in April 2003 and has significantly reduced (by approximately 50%) an annual deficit at Princess Pavilion by enhancing/improving facilities and services offered (e.g., marketing, diversification of the entertainments programme).
Development of/additional LA sport and recreation facilities will require negotiation with/involvement of CLL and could result in subsequent increase in/renegotiation of the Council’s annual ‘management payment’ to CLL.
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Development of a stadium
There are aspirations for a central Cornish stadium, potentially on the outskirts of Truro. The development could include a 10,000 to 20,000 seat stadium, club house, grass and synthetic pitches, ancillary and other facilities. If located in, or near, Truro, it could potentially be a focus for a multi sports hub club, incorporate Truro based sports clubs and development of under-supplied facilities.
Perranporth Sports Centre
Planning application approval to develop the (privately funded and managed) ‘St Piran Sports Centre’ in Ponsmere Valley, Perranporth has been deferred by CDC pending compliance with conditions in respect of “external illumination” and “the provision of alternative playing pitches”. Plans for the Centre include a sports hall, swimming pool, squash courts and a fitness gym. They also include development of adjacent business units, which will enhance the financial viability of the development.
Truro College sports academies
Truro College has several sports academies (e.g., basketball) and is seeking to extend its sports provision and potentially develop specialist sports facilities (e.g., a bespoke cricket development centre, which is planned for 2009/10).
Penryn Specialist Sports College Building Schools for the Future (BSF) development
Penryn College is a local education authority (LEA) maintained co-educational, comprehensive specialist Sports College. It is Cornwall County Council’s BSF one- school pathfinder scheme and is currently being rebuilt on its existing site. Sport and recreation facilities include a: f 6-badminton sports hall. f Large storage area. f Dance studio. f Climbing wall and outdoor activities centre. f Two synthetic turf pitches. f Additional changing accommodation. f Cover for four tennis/two netball courts.
The development will significantly increase sport and recreation facilities available for both school and community use.
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Combined Universities in Cornwall (CUC)
Published proposals for future development of the CUC Tremough site include sport and recreation facilities, which, although outside the District will provide opportunities for, and potentially help to satisfy sport and recreation needs of, Falmouth and Penryn residents.
Local Growth Points
LA has identified the Threemilestone area (around Treliske hospital, Truro College, Gloweth and the Richard Lander School) as a Growth Area. Proposals seek to strengthen its role as a regional centre and tackle the significant imbalance between homes and jobs, thereby reducing commuting and the resultant congestion. A visionary package of transport infrastructure improvements will connect together new communities and employment centres. In supporting Truro as a New Growth Point, the Government is entering into a long-term partnership with LA and Cornwall County Council, recognising their ambitions for growth, subject to the statutory regional and local planning process. Local partners' ambitions include: f An additional 5,000 homes for Carrick by 2016 with a minimum of 35 per cent affordable homes f 350 new student bedspaces and 100 keyworker flats to support Truro's increasing focus as a centre of medical and educational excellence f Targeted improvement of employment areas including 50,000 sq ft of managed workspace as part of the City's new medipark development f The early delivery of a strategic housing site with elevated levels of affordable housing. Recreational and community facilities and public realm improvements will support the development of such new communities f A step change in the retail offer of Truro with an additional 300,000 sq ft of space as part of the mixed-use enhancement of the City centre f The creation of a new strategic public transport corridor, including a 1200 space park and ride scheme, cutting congestion and improving connectivity between the city centre and the urban extension. f Funding for masterplanning and capacity building projects to ensure the deliver of 1-3 years quality, community-centred development
Achieving these ambitions will depend on a range of public and private funding programmes, including developer contributions. Government is committing to work with local partners to achieve sustainable growth to get the best outcomes from this investment and to help overcome obstacles to delivery.
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Local Government Reorganisation April 2009
A single council for Cornwall will comprise elements from the six existing Borough and District Councils (i.e., Carrick, Kerrier, Restormel, Caradon, Penwith and North Cornwall) and Cornwall County Council. Community Networks will be created, based around the main towns and their hinterlands. The Networks will facilitate public engagement in the decision making process, more effectively connecting communities with local government. The Networks will play a key role in encouraging public participation in shaping their local communities, through the development of ‘community action plans’ to integrate existing statutory and voluntary community planning functions.
The Local Area Agreement (LAA) is at the heart of public sector delivery, reflecting the need for joint actions to meet present and future challenges. Unification of the seven local authorities will make a significant difference to the effectiveness of LAA arrangements by streamlining engagement and facilitating greater involvement at a local level. This strategy is consistent with these aspirations and could/should be applied throughout Cornwall.
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Summary of identified needs
Additional community sports facilities
Housing development is one of the principal justifications for additional community sports facilities (i.e., new residents increase demand for sports facilities). Approximately 7,000 new dwellings are planned for development in Carrick for ten years to 2016 with a projected population growth of 17,958 adults. Development will be focused in the Truro urban area (i.e., the urban extension) and the Falmouth/Penryn urban area within Carrick District. Need for sport and recreation facilities will increase most significantly in these areas. When population growth resulting from housing development (i.e., 17,958 adults) is combined with potential increases in levels of participation (i.e., 4,721 adults) additional demand for sport and recreation facilities equates to 22,679 adults. This is apportioned (based on housing development projections) between the four analysis areas as follows:
Table 2
Analysis area Projected Additional community sports and recreation facility increase in needs demand (adults) Pools Halls Indoor Bowling A 15,313 2.75 lanes 4.09 courts 1.12 rinks B 1,999 0.36 lanes 0.53 courts 0.15 rinks C 1,073 0.19 lanes 0.29 courts 0.08 rinks D 4,294 0.77 lanes 1.15 courts 0.31 rinks Total 22,679 4.07 lanes 6.06 courts 1.66 rinks (1.02 pools) (1.51 halls) (0.28 centres)
With the exception of halls in Analysis Area A (i.e., Truro and Threemilestone and environs) there is insufficient justification, based on projected population and participation increases alone, for new full-size community sports and recreation facilities. In these situations, projected increased demand for pools, halls and indoor bowling facilities could be satisfied by extending existing facilities, where this is appropriate, practical and cost effective. In Analysis Area D (i.e., North Coast and inland areas) demand for one additional sports hall court (i.e., a badminton court) could be satisfied through improved access to existing hall(s) or development of a new facility.
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Additional sport and recreation facility needs in Carrick are (in no particular order) to: f Extend and develop the network of MUGAs. f Improve the network (and accessibility) of facilities for sport and recreation in rural areas. f Improve the quality of changing accommodation, particularly on multi-pitch sites. f Improve provision of specific sports (e.g., hockey, tennis).
The way that facilities are managed and operated also influences their use. Key issues that should be addressed in include: f Ensuring good access to court time for community use, throughout the year. This is particularly significant for dual-use facilities where sports halls are used for exams for several weeks (potentially as much as 18 weeks) a year. f Central programming of school facilities for community use could help to co- ordinate provision and make better use of the facilities. f Fees and charges are competitive with those in neighbouring areas but are still considered (by some users) to be relatively expensive and have contributed to several clubs either ceasing to operate or to relocate to alternative facilities.
Analysis of the Assessment also identifies principles by which sport and recreation facilities should be developed in the District. These are to: f Improve the quality of existing facilities. f Develop more facilities in rural villages. f Improve sports facilities throughout the area, but particularly in Truro and Falmouth/Penryn. f Develop policies to obtain developer contributions. f Increase community use of school facilities, particularly primary schools. f Provide more facilities closer to where people live, particularly free-play facilities.
Sport and recreation facilities are generally not an issue (or a priority) for parish councils and other neighbourhood organisations in Carrick. The greatest need identified by community organisations is for more informal provision, particularly for young people.
Facility and sports specific facility needs in Carrick include: f Developing MUGAs in seven parishes f Improving the condition of hard courts.
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f Upgrading clubhouse changing accommodation. f Developing indoor tennis facilities and improve floodlighting of outdoor courts. f Improving access to, and use of, STPs by hockey clubs.
Even so, there are insufficient levels of demand to justify development of new sport and recreation facilities in individual areas. Consequently, developer contributions should be pooled and used to contribute to development of facilities of ‘district’ significance. The absence of sufficient projected additional need to justify development of principal sport and recreation facilities (e.g., a 25m swimming pool, sports hall or indoor bowling facility) in a single analysis area will require an assessment of the extent to which the calculated additional need could be satisfied by upgrading/enhancing existing facilities.
With these issues in mind, it will be important to provide better access to facilities for sport and recreation, close to where people live, in which young people have an interest in taking part and new facilities should be planned close to discourage private car journeys by offering easy walking/cycling and public transport access.
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AUDIT OF FACILITIES
A comprehensive audit of provision in the District was conducted during the Summer 2007. It provides a ‘snap shot’ of the situation at that time and was based on proforma to standardise data collection. The audit helped to: f Identify effective catchment areas. f Analyse the quantity of provision. f Assess levels and types of use. f Assess quality of provision.
Research
Standardised audit proforma allows each facility to be considered on a ‘like for like’ basis. Analysis of the distribution of, and interrelationship between, sport and recreation facilities also helps to evaluate demand. The Audit does not consider the ‘life expectancy’ or building development requirements of facilities. It gives a clear indication of areas of 1-3 years demand, where there is potential to provide improved and/or additional facilities to meet this demand and to, where appropriate, protect the current stock. Ownership and management are also fundamentally important. They determine the effectiveness with which facilities serve the community and meet local need.
A ‘non-technical, visual inspection’ (using standardised proforma) was made of each leisure/sports centre, community sports facilities (e.g., tennis courts, bowling greens) and the majority of changing pavilions, regardless of how they are provided (i.e., public, private, voluntary or on an education site). Facility related issues generally inhibit development of specific sports. Sports clubs included in the Audit are therefore considered in the context of both their developmental and facility requirements.
Other relevant information is derived from previous research and consultation. The full sport and recreation assessment report (which contains audit information) is available from Carrick District Council. Any associated open and amenity space within or adjacent to the built facility is not covered by this audit. These spaces have been assessed by LA as part of a separate exercise.
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Summary of audit
In very general terms, there is an adequate supply of built facilities (in adequate condition) used for sport and recreation in Carrick, although the management, use and accessibility of these facilities are variable. Issues relating to the availability of specific types of facilities of sport and recreation facility tend to be localised.
Summary of audit findings and analysis
Analysis of the audit of sport and recreation facilities in Carrick is summarised as follows:
Table 3
Type of facility Summary of key points Sports halls f There are 7 4-badminton court sports halls and one 6-badminton court sports hall. f They are provide through a mix of public (operated by CLL on behalf of LA), school and college operations. f A significant proportion of residents are more than either a twenty minute walk in densely populated areas or a ten minute drive a way from a sports hall. The most significant (because of its size and population density) catchment gap is in Analysis Area D. f Community use of sports halls on education sites is primarily restricted to evenings, weekends and during academic holidays (i.e., there’s no day-time community use). This could change significantly through the ‘extended schools’ initiative, which encourages greater community use of school facilities in mainstream and special schools. f The majority of sports halls in Carrick are assessed to be in good condition. The exception is the sports hall at Penryn College, which will be replaced in the near future. f There is no evidence to suggest that sports halls within 5km from LA’s administrative boundary have a significant impact on local provision. However, Carn Brea Leisure Centre, in Kerrier (which is further than 5km away) attracts (small numbers of) users from Truro. f The quality of sports halls at Truro Leisure Centre is rated as above average. f New/additional indoor basketball facilities and indoor cricket facilities would be popular amongst existing leisure centre users. f Population growth and increased levels of participation could generate additional demand equivalent to over one and a half sports halls. Multi sport hub clubs f There is potential to develop a multi-sport hub club in the Truro area based on the relocation of ‘facility owning’ sports clubs in the
City (i.e., Truro FC, Truro RFC, Truro Tennis Club, Truro Squash Club) on to a single site. It could also incorporate facility shortfalls (e.g., indoor tennis) and the proposed stadium complex.
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Type of facility Summary of key points Multi-use (or small) halls f There are 76 small halls (i.e., village, church, community, secondary and primary school halls) in the District, the majority of which have a hall the size of at least one badminton court and could accommodate a range of fitness activities. f All secondary schools in Carrick have small halls, but most primary schools rely on using a generic/main hall. f Analysis of the distribution of small halls suggests that they are generally well spread throughout the District. f With the notable exception of some ‘rural’ areas, where population densities are very low, virtually all residents of the District live reasonably close to a village, church or community. f There are generally low levels of community use of indoor facilities at primary schools. Swimming pools f There are three ‘community’, indoor 25m swimming pools in Carrick, one LA teaching pool (at Truro Leisure Centre) and a leisure pool at Ships and Castles Leisure Centre. There are also several swimming pools of various descriptions and sizes in hotels and holiday parks that are excluded from the assessment. f Swimming pools are located in the principal areas of population in the District (i.e., Truro and Falmouth). f The majority of residents in the District are outwith the proposed catchment area for 25m swimming pools. With the exception of St Agnes, the population density of these areas is relatively small. f There are waiting lists for a range of swimming pool activities at Truro Leisure Centre, which is an indication of unmet demand. f Population growth and increased levels of participation could generate additional demand equivalent to just over one 25m, indoor swimming pool. f Access to swimming pools at Truro School and Truro 1-3 years School could be improved. Synthetic turf pitches (STPs) f There are six STPs in Carrick and three within 5km of the District Council’s administrative boundary, none of which are (significantly) used by Carrick residents. f The distribution of STPs is focused in Truro, with one (potentially two) STPs in Penryn2. f No floodlighting at two venues in Truro limits after school use. Populations outwith the proposed 20-minute drive-time catchment area of existing STPs are relatively small. f A second STP (sand filled) is planned at Penryn College. f All STPs are operated as dual-use facilities. f There is a variety of surfaces (i.e., ‘sand filled’ and 3G). f Installation of floodlighting for two STPs in Truro would significantly increase opportunities for community-use, and could (potentially) result in over-provision of STPs in the Analysis Area A. Indoor tennis courts f There are no bespoke, indoor tennis facilities in Carrick. f There is some latent demand for a bespoke indoor tennis facility in the District. f It is unlikely that the Area could support two indoor tennis facilities. There are, however, two proposals; one linked to Truro Tennis
Club and the other the relocation of Falmouth Sports Club.
2 The redundant ‘Ashfield’ STP in Falmouth was not included in the assessment.
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Type of facility Summary of key points Outdoor tennis courts f There are 16 sites providing 76 outdoor tennis courts that are (with the exception of the north of the District) relatively well distributed. f All courts are at least ‘average’ quality, although more could be floodlit. f All courts are available for community use (although two are available to members only). f The courts are available on a mix of voluntary (18%) and education (82%) managed sites. Indoor bowling greens f There is one bespoke, indoor bowls facilities in Carrick (at Veryan Indoor Bowls Club). Its members come from throughout the District. f However, Veryan Indoor Bowls Club operates successfully with fewer members than recommend by the English Indoor Bowls Association (i.e., it has 150 members as opposed to the 400 members recommended). f New/additional indoor bowls facilities would be popular amongst existing leisure centre users and non-users. f Population growth and increased levels of participation could generate additional demand equivalent to less than ¼ of one indoor bowling facility. Outdoor bowling greens f There are eight sites and eight outdoor bowling greens in the District. f They are relatively evenly distributed throughout the area. f Two of the bowling greens (i.e., in Penryn and Falmouth) have synthetic surfaces. f With the exception of some gaps in sparsely populated areas in Analysis Areas D and C, all residents live within acceptable distances of an outdoor bowls facility. f All outdoor bowling greens are assessed to be ‘good’ or ‘excellent’ in terms of the quality of provision. Multi-use games areas f There are four (recorded) MUGAs in the District. f Significant communities don’t have access to a MUGA. f The condition of all MUGAs is considered to be ‘good’. f The re is identi fied need for additional MUGAs in: o Chacewater o Cubert o Feock o Gwennap o Ladock o Perranaworthal o St Just in Roseland Fitness suites/gyms f There are 16 fitness facilities spread across the District. They are provided via a mixture of management styles. f There is significant clustering in urban areas and poor provision in ‘rural’ areas, especially in Analysis Area D. f The education and local authority sectors are the most significant providers of fitness facilities in the District. f There are six private providers recorded, although fitness suites/gyms in hotels and a (soon to be open) fitness gym in Greenbottom (near Threemilestone) are thought to make a significant contribution. f Public access to many fitness facilities provided by schools is restricted (e.g., limited day-time use). f The CUC Tremough Campus in Penryn (but outside the District) is used by Falmouth and Penryn residents.
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Type of facility Summary of key points Squash courts f There are eight squash courts available in Carrick, on four sites. f The number of squash courts has reduced in recent years. f Contrary to national trends, there is no reported decline in demand or over-use of existing courts. f There are two glass backed courts (with spectator seating) at Truro Squash Club and Falmouth Sports Club. f Planned and/or enforced changes (as the result of relocation or the end of a lease) at Falmouth Sports Club and Truro Squash Club could result in a reduction in the number of squash courts within Carrick. Golf courses f There are four golf courses spread throughout the District, each with an 18-hole course. f All golf courses are ‘well used’ and they are in at least ‘adequate’ condition. f Accessibility of golf courses is generally good, although they are all private members clubs. f The absence of floodlighting at Falmouth Golf Club driving range limits its use to daylight hours. Youth provision f There are eight venues identified as ‘youth facilities’, comprising a variety of activities (e.g., skate boarding, BMX). f New youth facilities in Hendra, Truro will ‘open’ in Autumn 2008. f The 2006 Open Spaces Study found that current levels of provision are inadequate and that more provision for teenagers/young people is desired by residents. f There are two recorded, bespoke youth centres in Carrick. Neither has sport facilities covered by this assessment (although a ‘sports hall’ is being developed at Falmouth Youth Centre). Athletics tracks f There are no permanent, all-weather 400 metre athletics tracks in Carrick. Consultation has found that there is insufficient justification for development of full-sized athletics facilities in the District. f Consideration could, however, be given to development of an all- weather training facility, particularly on a school site. Recreation ground f There are 17 facilities that have been assessed as stand-alone pavilions/changing changing accommodation. They are owned by either cricket, rugby accommodation or tennis clubs. The largest proportion (50%) are assessed as ‘excellent’ or ‘good’ quality. A smaller (but significant) proportion (28%) are in poor condition and in need of re-decoration. f There is a dearth of dedicated changing accommodation for officials (e.g., referees, umpires). Neighbouring areas f Community sport and recreation facilities in neighbouring areas have limited use by Carrick residents.
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Facility hierarchy
PPG17 identifies that, in rural areas, or where some populations are isolated from the main district centre(s), there can be significant distances between settlements. At the same time it is rarely possible for every settlement to have its own range of services and facilities (e.g., school, post office, general store, village hall and recreation ground). This gives rise to the concept of a ‘facility hierarchy’ in which some forms of provision (e.g., sports halls) are available within each analysis area with the intention that they serve several settlements within that area.
To this extent, minimum provision of sport and recreation facilities is proposed for all analysis areas. They are aspirational and based on consultation, identification of current and future demand and premised on the calculation of catchment areas for each type of facility. They do not necessarily apply to a single site, although they should all be available in one analysis area. Facilities within the hierarchy should be accessible for community use. The minimum number of sport and recreation facilities that should be available within each analysis area is: f One 4-badminton court sports hall. f One floodlit synthetic turf pitch. f A comprehensive network of MUGAs. f Four tennis courts. f One 6-rink outdoor bowling green. f One 10-20 piece fitness gym. f One site designated for skate boarding and/or BMX.
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MINIMUM LOCAL PROVISION STANDARDS
The setting of local minimum provision standards, informed by the assessment, will provide LA with a contemporary and informed view of sport and recreation facilities, facilitate more speedy and successful negotiation of developer contributions, resist unsuitable planning applications for the development, avoid the loss of sport and recreational facilities and ensure effective planning
The Companion Guide to PPG17 states that local standards should include: f A quantitative component (i.e., how much provision is needed) f A qualitative component (i.e., condition) f An accessibility component (e.g., travel distances, cost)
Inclusion of a minimum acceptable size also helps as a guide to facility development. The relative importance of these elements will vary from one type of provision to another.
Minimum provision standards are proposed for each type of facility (see appendix 1). They are aspirational and based on site assessments, consultation, identification of current and future demand and premised on the calculation of effective catchment areas. They do not necessarily apply to a single site.
Facilities were also assessed in relation to their operation at the time of the site assessment to ascertain whether or not they were being managed in an appropriate manner. All facilities are assumed to offer at least ‘adequate’, but not exclusive, day- time community use, be ‘fit for purpose’ (i.e., able to provide opportunities in activities for which it is intended), be in at least ‘adequate condition’ and provide adequate car parking for peak time usage in a safe and secure location adjacent to the facility(s).
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Identified shortfalls and key issues
By type of facility
Shortfalls in the availability, quality and accessibility of sport and recreation built facilities in Carrick and key issues, as identified in the needs assessment and audit, and based on the minimum standards of provision, are summarised as follows:
Table 4
Facility type Significant shortfall(s) Sports halls f The largest focus for housing development, and associated population growth, in the District is the Truro and Threemilestone area. There is insufficient spare capacity at existing sports halls in the Area to cater for the resultant additional demand. Development of additional sports hall space will be necessary. f Development of additional sports hall space in Analysis Area D is necessary to meet the proposed minimum provision standard. f The current sports hall at Penryn College was found to be of ‘poor’ quality. f 50% of sports halls in Carrick are in facilities that are at least ‘adequately’ accessible and 50% are ‘poorly’ accessible. This is due to a variety of issues including proximity of public transport, adequacy of car parking and signage. f There is a local perception that the sports halls in Analysis Area B are inaccessible. This is partly because they are located in the north of the Area at the Area’s two principal secondary school sites. Their daytime community use is restricted and their accessibility is problematic, plus there is no alternative provision. (This is also a significant issue in Analysis Areas C). The resident population is, however, too small to justify and/or sustain a third sports hall in the Conurbation and there are no alternative sties in public ownership. Small halls f There are generally low levels of community use of indoor facilities at primary schools. Swimming pools f There is poor access to Ships and Castles Leisure Centre because it is located in the south of the Falmouth-Penryn conurbation. The
resident population is, however, too small to justify and/or sustain a second ‘community’ swimming pool in the Area. Although desirable, a more central location in the Conurbation could be difficult to achieve due to land availability and prices. f The largest focus for housing development, and associated population growth, in the District is the Truro and Threemilestone area. There is insufficient spare capacity at Truro Leisure Centre to cater for the resultant additional demand. Development of additional, or increased community use of existing, swimming pool space will be necessary. f There are no swimming pools available for use by local residents in analysis area D.
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Facility type Significant shortfall(s) Synthetic turf pitches (STPs) f Analysis Area C’s population density is relatively low and too small to justify development of a STP. Potential solutions include improving access (e.g., discounted costs, transport) to STPs in Truro or developing a network of MUGAs. f Development of additional STP in Analysis Area D is necessary to meet the proposed minimum provision standard. f The predominance of football use of STPs (reported during consultation) restricts use by hockey clubs. Provision of STPs dedicated for football use (e.g., 5/6/7-a-side multi pitch courts) could help to improve this situation. Multi sports hub clubs f Development of multi-sport hub club in Truro could include relocation of several clubs, incorporate identified facility shortfalls plus the proposed stadium complex. Indoor tennis courts f One bespoke, indoor tennis facility. Outdoor tennis courts f Additional outdoor tennis courts in ‘rural’ areas would improve the distribution of courts. f Access for disabled tennis players to outdoor tennis courts at St Agnes Tennis Club, Truro Tennis club and Truro School could be improved. Indoor bowling greens f The resident population outwith the catchment are of the existing indoor bowling facility in Veryan facility is not large enough to make additional indoor bowls facilities financially viable. New facilities could also have a negative impact on viability of Veryan indoor Bowls Club. f Veryan Indoor Bowls Club is located in a rural area, which significantly restricts/limits its accessibility. Outdoor bowling greens f There are no significant shortfalls identified for outdoor bowling greens. Multi-use games areas f The majority of communities don’t have access to a MUGA. Seven parishes are identified as priorities by Sport England. Fitness suites/gyms f There is insufficient provision of fitness facilities/gyms at Roseland Community School and in the St Agnes and Perranporth areas. f Increase the size/number of stations in the fitness suite/gym at Falmouth School and Falmouth Sports Club so that they meet the relevant minimum provision standard. f Improve public access to: o Falmouth School o Truro School o Truro 1-3 years School o Penryn College o Penair School and Science College Squash courts f With potential changes at/to Truro Squash club and Falmouth Sports Club, it will be important to sustain the current number of courts. f The squash court at Truro School is in poor condition. Athletics tracks f Develop an all-weather training facility, particularly on a school site. Recreation ground f Changing accommodation on sites with more than one grass pitch pavilions/changing and shared by two or more teams, are generally poorer quality. accommodation f There is a dearth of dedicated changing accommodation for officials (e.g., referees, umpires).
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Quantity shortfalls for sports halls, swimming pools and STPs are, primarily, the result of projected housing development in the District. Development of new, and improvement to existing, facilities to address these shortfalls should be located in the proximity of the principal development areas (i.e., Truro and Threemilestone).
Quantity standards per 1,000 people
Quantity standards per 1,000 people are calculated for inclusion in Carrick supplementary planning documents and to help secure developer contributions towards sport and recreation facilities. They are calculated by: f Calculating current provision in square meters (by multiplying the number of facilities identified in the Assessment by the relevant minimum size – see the minimum provision standards in Appendix 1). f Calculating future additional requirements in square meters (by multiplying identified shortfalls by a facility’s relevant minimum sizes). f Adding the two calculations above together to calculate total requirements up to 2016. f Dividing this by the projected future population for the District (i.e., 109,658), which is calculated by adding 2006 population data (i.e., 91,700) to population projections based on housing projections (i.e., 17,958). f Multiplying this number by 1,000.
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The quantity standards per 1,000 people for sport and recreation facilities in Carrick are:
Table 5
Type of facility Spatial3 Current Additional Total Quantity requirement provision /Future requirements standard for a single needs per 1,000 facility people (square (square metres) metres) Sports halls (i.e., 4- 683.1 5,806.35 1,024.65 6,831 62.29 badminton court halls) Swimming pools4 (i.e., 230 1,242 230 1,472 13.42 publicly available water area) Synthetic turf pitches 6,095 36,570 - 36,570 333.49 (STPs) Multi-use (or small) halls 207 15,736 - 15,736 143.5 (i.e., 1-badminton court hall) Fitness suites/gyms (i.e., 57.5 658.37 172.5 830.87 7.57 10 stations) Indoor bowling facilities 193 386 160.19 546.19 4.98 (two rinks) Multi-use games areas 787.2 3,148.8 5,510.4 8,659.2 78.96 Indoor tennis courts 910.8 - 910.8 910.8 8.30 (single court) Outdoor tennis courts 628.2 47,743.2 - 47,743.2 435.38 (single court) Squash courts 71.76 574.08 - 574.08 5.24 Recreation ground 34.5 586.5 - 586.5 5.35 pavilions/changing accommodation
(Note: Quantity standards for outdoor bowling greens are not calculated or included in Table 5 because they are part of the open spaces assessment for Carrick).
3 Spatial requirement includes the recommended minimum size for a single facility plus 15% for circulation, changing accommodation, reception, run-off (as required) etc. 4 Excluding the ‘leisure pool’ at Ships and Castles Leisure Centre.
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FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS
Population growth resulting from housing development will increase demand for sport and recreation facilities. To this extent, housing development is one of the justifications for additional community sports facilities, particularly in areas of significant housing development. Housing developers will be expected to make financial contributions towards satisfying identified deficiencies/shortfalls. (Note: The Council may also wish to consider seeking contributions from other types of development as appropriate).
Implementation
It is unrealistic to expect land to become available at all locations for development of sport and recreation facilities. Where appropriate land cannot be acquired ‘on site’, contributions from the developer will be used to increase the quality and/or quantity of existing provision ‘off site’. In situations where it is not possible, or desirable, to make ‘on site’ provision, LA will pool ‘off site’ contributions in ‘analysis area specific development pots’. This will allow deficiencies in quality and quantity to be dealt with strategically.
Circumstances where 'off site provision' or a payment of a financial contribution to improve existing provision may be acceptable are: f Where the development site is too small or of an inappropriate shape to reasonably accommodate sport and recreation facilities. f 1-3 years density schemes in the urban areas where on site provision would not optimise the use of land or meet sustainability objectives. f Where topography or other site constraints would not allow for acceptable provision.
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Commuted sums for maintenance
According to the Governments advise in Circular 05/05, “Where contributions are secured through planning obligations towards the provision of facilities which are predominantly for the benefit of the users of the associated development, it may be appropriate for the developer to make provision for subsequent maintenance (i.e. physical upkeep). Such provision may be required in perpetuity. As a general rule, however, where an asset is intended for wider public use, the costs of subsequent maintenance and other recurrent expenditure associated with the developer's contributions should normally be borne by the body or authority in which the asset is to be vested. Where contributions to the initial support (“pump priming”) of new facilities are necessary, these should reflect the time lag between the provision of the new facility and its inclusion in public sector funding streams, or its ability to recover its own costs in the case of privately-run bus services, for example. Pump priming maintenance payments should be time-limited and not be required in perpetuity by planning obligations”.
Development of sport and recreation facilities in Carrick will be intended for wider public use and, as a result, it is likely that the cost of subsequent maintenance will be borne by the managing organisation.
Capital costs of provision
The table below outlines the costs of developing various components of community sport and recreation facilities. They do not include costs of acquiring land or developing ancillary facilities. Figures are based on data provided by Sport England for 2nd Quarter 2008. They also reflect current forecast price indices for 2nd Quarter 2008 provided by the Building Cost Information Service (BCIS).
Table 6
Facility Type Facility Details Costs
Sports Hall 1 court £695,000 4 court £2,765,000 Pools 25m pool (5 lane) £2,670,000 Changing Rooms 4 team changing pavilion £565,000 Indoor Bowls Centre 6 lane £1,555,000 extra lane £210,000
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Facility Type Facility Details Costs
Indoor tennis Centre 3 court £1,790,000 Extra court £590,000 Outdoor Tennis Court 2 court, macadam, fenced and floodlit £135,000 Grandstand 500 seater with no under croft £495,000 Skate park 40 x18m fenced and floodlit £115,000 Synthetic Turf Pitches Sand based 100 x 64m fenced and floodlit £600,000 Rubber crumb 100 x 64m fenced and floodlit £740,000 Water based 100 x64m fenced and floodlit £925,000 Grass pitch 100 x 64m £80,000 Multi–use games areas 40 x 18m fenced and floodlit £80,000 Athletics Track 6 lane floodlit £1,150,000
(The capital costs of developing a ten station fitness gym, based on contemporary experience and business planning, is £120,000. Similarly, the capital costs of developing a squash court are £94,000).
The costs above include allowances for the following: f External works (car parks, roads, paths, services connections etc) are included at an average rate of 15% addition to the cost of the works. f Fees are included at 15% for; Sports halls, swimming pools, changing rooms, indoor tennis centres and indoor bowls centres f Fees are included at 5% for: Synthetic turf pitches, multi-use games areas, athletics tracks and outdoor tennis courts
The costings above exclude the following: f Inflation beyond current 2nd Quarter 2008 prices. f Site abnormals such as poor ground conditions and difficult access. f VAT. f Land acquisition costs. f Regional cost variations in materials and labour.
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Calculation of developer’s contributions
Developer contributions will contribute to the cost of developing sport and recreation facilities in Carrick. They are based on LA’s minimum provision standards for sport and recreation facilities. Developer contributions are likely to be used as ‘match funding’ by LA to attract additional funds and contribute to the total cost of developing a range of facilities. LA will develop a ‘central pot’ for developer contributions, which will be used to against a prescribed programme of development (see table 9). The calculation of financial contributions from developers to satisfy need (generated by residents of new dwellings) for sport and recreational facilities in each analysis area is as follows:
1. Identify the number of dwellings planned in each analysis area 2. Calculate the potential number of people generated as a result of development of new dwellings by multiplying the number of dwellings planned for development in each analysis area by the average number of persons per dwelling (i.e., 2.3). 3. Identify LA’s quantity standard per 1,000 people for each type of facility (see table 5). 4. Calculate the space requirements for each type of facility (in square metres) generated as a result of housing development by dividing the quantity standard by 1,000 and multiplying the answer by the number of people generated by development of new dwellings. 5. Identify the spatial requirements (in square metres) for a single facility from LA’s minimum provision standards (see appendix 1). 6. Identify the cost of development for each type of facility (see table 6). 7. Calculate the cost per square metre for each type of facility by dividing the cost of development by the spatial requirements for a single facility. 8. Calculate the capital cost requirements in each analysis area for each type of facility by multiplying the cost of provision per square meter by the space requirement generated by housing development. 9. Calculate the total capital cost of satisfying need generated by residents of new development by adding the capital requirements for all types of facility in each analysis area. 10. Calculate the cost per dwelling in each analysis area by dividing the capital requirements by the number of dwellings planned for development.
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Table 7
Stage Description Analysis area A B C D 1 Number of dwellings planned for 5,272 688 370 1,478 development 2 Number of people generated by 12,126 15,82 851 3,399 development of new dwellings 3 Quantity standards per 1,000 people: Sports halls (i.e., 4-badminton court halls) 62.29 Swimming pools 13.42 Synthetic turf pitches (STPs) 333.49 Multi-use/small halls (i.e., 1-badminton court 143.5 hall) Fitness suites/gyms (i.e., 10 stations) 7.57 Indoor bowling facilities (two rinks) 4.98 Multi-use games areas 78.96 Indoor tennis courts (single court) 8.3 Outdoor tennis courts (single court) 435.38 Squash courts 5.24 Recreation ground pavilions/changing 5.35 accommodation 4 Space requirements generated by housing development (m2) Sports halls 755.30 98.57 53.01 211.75 Swimming pools 162.73 21.24 11.42 45.62 Synthetic turf pitches 4043.77 527.71 283.80 1133.67 Multi-use/small halls 1740.02 227.07 122.12 487.81 Fitness suites/gyms (i.e., 10 91.79 11.98 6.44 25.73 stations) Indoor bowling facilities (two 60.39 7.88 4.24 16.93 rinks) Multi-use games areas 957.44 124.95 67.19 268.42 Indoor tennis courts (single 100.64 13.13 7.06 28.22 court) Outdoor tennis courts (single 5279.24 688.95 370.51 1480.03 court) Squash courts 63.54 8.29 4.46 17.81 Rec and pavilions/changing 64.87 8.47 4.55 18.19 accommodation 5 Spatial requirements for a single facility (m2) Sports halls 683.1 Swimming pools 230 Synthetic turf pitches 6,095 Multi-use/small halls 207 Fitness suites/gyms (i.e., 10 57.5 stations)
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Stage Description Analysis area A B C D Stage Indoor bowling facilities (two 193 5 cont.. rinks) Multi-use games areas 787.2 Indoor tennis courts (single 910.8 court) Outdoor tennis courts (single 628.2 court) Squash courts 71.76 Rec and pavilions/changing 34.5 accommodation 6 Cost of development of each type of facility at Q2 2008 (£) Sports halls 2,765,000 Swimming pools 2,670,000 Synthetic turf pitches 600,000 Multi-use/small halls 695,000 Fitness suites/gyms (i.e., 10 120,000 stations) Indoor bowling facilities (two 420,000 rinks) Multi-use games areas 80,000 Indoor tennis courts (single 590,000 court) Outdoor tennis courts (single 67,500 court) Squash courts - Rec and pavilions/changing 565,000 accommodation 7 Cost per m2 (£) Sports halls 4047.72 Swimming pools 11608.70 Synthetic turf pitches 98.44 Multi-use/small halls 3357.49 Fitness suites/gyms (i.e., 10 2086.96 stations) Indoor bowling facilities (two 2176.17 rinks) Multi-use games areas 101.63 Indoor tennis courts (single 647.78 court) Outdoor tennis courts (single 107.45 court) Squash courts - Rec and pavilions/changing 16376.81 accommodation
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Stage Description Analysis area A B C D 8 Capital requirements for sport and recreation facilities resulting from housing development(£) Sports halls 3,057,260.31 398,974.79 214,564.93 857,099.91 Swimming pools 1,889,031.41 246,520.03 132,576.18 529,588.09 Synthetic turf pitches 398,073.80 51,948.93 27,937.65 111,599.60 Multi-use/small halls 5,842,108.22 762,399.56 410,011.39 1,637,829.28 Fitness suites/gyms (i.e., 10 191,563.39 24,999.17 6.44 53,704.61 stations) Indoor bowling facilities 131,408.83 17,148.95 9,222.55 36,840.34 (two rinks) Multi-use games areas 97,300.55 12,697.80 6,828.76 27,278.11 Indoor tennis courts (single 65,194.40 8,507.92 4,575.48 18,277.19 court) Outdoor tennis courts 567,253.98 74,027.08 39,811.07 159,029.09 (single court) Squash courts 83,230.01 10,861.58 5,841.26 23,333.45 Rec and pavilions/changing 1,062,395.87 138,643.47 74,561.17 297,841.63 accommodation 9 Total capital cost (£) 13,384,820 1,746,729 939,374 3,752,421 10 Cost per dwelling (£) 2,538.85 2,538.85 2,538.85 2,538.85
(Priorities for funding are identified in Table 9).
Calculation of developer contributions (see Table 7 above) does not include maintenance costs. Development of policy/policies for developer contributions towards costs of maintaining sport and recreation facilities resulting from additional demand created by development of new housing will be an important adjunct to this strategy.
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STRATEGIC POLICY OPTIONS
The application of the minimum provision standards and the assessment of facilities have identified the following priority deficiencies/issues in built facilities used for sport and recreation in Carrick: f Continued provision of all facility types is required at, at least, comparable levels. f Additional sports hall space will be required of approximately six badminton courts to meet population growth and increases in physical activity levels. f Additional swimming pool space approximately equivalent to a 25m swimming pool will be required to meet population growth and increases in physical activity levels. f There is demand for an indoor tennis facility. f Installation of floodlighting at non-floodlit STPs in Truro will increase opportunities for community use. f There are opportunities to develop multi sport hub clubs in the Truro and Threemilestone area. f Anticipated increased demand for additional indoor bowls facilities is insufficient to justify development of a new facility. f Continued development of a comprehensive network of MUGAs. f Enhance the network of fitness suites/gyms.
There are four principal policy options for addressing identified deficiencies/issues. These are:
Table 8
Policy option Comment Upgraded facility provision Upgrading existing facility provision would meet some of the qualitative deficiencies identified, particularly for village/community halls and changing accommodation. Enhanced access to existing facilities The predominance of dual-use sport and recreation facilities on school sites both restricts daytime community access (particularly to 4-badminton court sports halls) and potentially provides opportunities to address some of the identified deficiencies/issues. Integrated facility provision In some instances, the deficiencies identified could be met through adapted or integrated provision. For example: Combined provision of facilities (e.g., a MUGA with tennis court markings) could enhance the network of community facilities. Ensuring that village/community halls can accommodate specific activities (e.g., carpet bowls) could significantly reduce the need for additional facilities.
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Policy option Comment New facility provision Providing new facilities to meet specific deficiencies/issues: Direct provision by LA could be the only option for developing principal sport and recreation facilities offering extensive community use and addressing multiple deficiencies/issues. Parish councils are major providers of village/community halls, changing pavilions/accommodation and some MUGAs and youth facilities, which should be sustained and increased. Developing new school sports facilities that also serve community needs, could help to meet some deficiencies. Voluntary sector sports clubs are, and will continue to be, significant facility providers of bowling greens, tennis courts etc. Clubs could be supported to safeguard existing provision and to develop new facilities to meet identified deficiencies/issues. Some types of facility (e.g., golf courses) can be operated on a commercially viable basis. The development of new housing in the District will offer opportunities for financial contributions from property developers, to assist with meeting the costs for new or improved sport and recreation built facility provision to cater for the projected increase in population.
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HEADLINE ACTION PLAN
There are several ways of meeting identified deficiencies/issues in Carrick, through a combination of new and upgraded provision, developing access to education sites and by integrating some needs to share the use of multi-purpose facilities. The most significant of these are:
Table 9
Priority Recommended action Timescale Outcome/KPI Potential deficiencies/issues Partner(s) Develop policies for Amend local planning policy 1-3 years Effective policies LA developer to create a ‘single pot’ for to collect and use contributions. developer contributions. developer contributions. Develop developer 1-3 years Enhanced facility LA contribution policy/policies for sustainability. maintenance costs. Continued provision Protect, enhance and sustain 1-3 years Provision at least LA, CLL, of all facility types. repairs and maintenance at 2007 levels. schools programmes for LA sport and recreation facilities. Advocate good practise 1-3 years Provision at least LA, CLL amongst sport and recreation at 2007 levels. facility operators. Additional sports Develop new sports halls in 4-6 years A new 4- LA, CLL hall space Analysis Areas A and D. badminton sports hall. Extend small halls where 7-10 years Increased LA, parish appropriate, especially in capacity of councils Analysis Area D. existing/additional small hall in Analysis Area D. Additional swimming Increase swimming pools 7-10 years Opportunities for LA, CLL pool space space either by extending an additional existing 25m swimming pool community or developing a new facility. swimming.
Increase Installation of floodlighting at 4-6 years Increased LA, Truro High floodlighting of non-floodlit STPs, especially opportunities for School, Richard STPs. in Truro. community use of Lander School STPs. Develop a multi Develop a multi sport hub 4-6 years One new multi LA, CLL, sports sport hub club. clubs in the Truro and sports hub club clubs in Truro Threemilestone area. (e.g., Truro RFC, Truro Tennis Club, Truro Squash Club).
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Priority Recommended action Timescale Outcome/KPI Potential deficiencies/issues Partner(s) Develop an indoor Include development of an 4-6 years A new indoor LA, CLL, Truro tennis facility. indoor tennis facility in the tennis facility. Tennis Club, multi sport hub club (see LTA above) Development of a Install open access MUGAs 7-10 years More LA, Parish comprehensive throughout the Area. opportunities to Councils, network of MUGAs. use ‘free-play’ schools facilities Enhance the Develop (at least one) 7-10 years More LA, CLL, Parish network of fitness publicly available fitness opportunities to Councils, suites/gyms. suite/gym in Analysis Areas be physically schools B, C and D. active.
The assessment also identified a need for: f Improved cross-boundary collaboration with neighbouring local authorities, particularly with regards to development of principal community facilities (i.e., sports halls, swimming pools and STPs). f Design and operational principles for new sport and recreation facilities.
LA should seek to facilitate the identified actions by empowering CLL to oversee their implementation in lieu of its ‘disappearance’ and the ‘emergence’ of Cornwall Council (the unitary local authority for Cornwall) in April 2009.
The way forward
The principal aspirations for successful strategy implementation will focus on achievement of four projects. These are: f Development of a 4-badminton sports hall in Perranporth. f Increase awareness and understanding that there are (generally) sufficient facilities in analysis area B and seek to improve their accessibility. f Development of a multi-sports hub club in the Truro-Threemilestone area, based on a partnership including local sports clubs (e.g., Truro football, rugby, swimming and tennis clubs) and Truro Leisure Centre. New facilities associated with the development could include a sports hall, swimming pool, fitness gym and indoor tennis facility. f Develop developer contribution policy/policies to secure maintenance costs.
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CARRICK SPORT AND RECREATION FACILITIES STRATEGY AND ACTION PLAN
APPENDIX 1 MINIMUM PROVISION STANDARDS
Planning Policy Guidance 17 (PPG 17), paragraph 33, states that it is essential that local authorities undertake detailed assessments of need (including future need) based upon audits of existing facilities, and that they set appropriate local standards to justify planning obligations. Minimum provision standards, and the recommendations that proceed them (see above), underpin and provide robust justification for the negotiation of developer contributions. Fol7 - 10 yearsing verification (by LA officers) of the assessment, the identified local needs and audit of provision are combined to develop local minimum standards of provision. The standards include: f A quantitative element (e.g., how much provision is required per 1,000 people). f A qualitative element (against which to measure the need for enhancement of existing facilities). f An accessibility element (e.g., barriers associated with cost of using a facility).
Type of facility Component Minimum provision standard Sports halls Quantity standard 62.29 m2/1,000 people Quality 4-badminton court sports halls (and ancillary facilities) should be in at least ’adequate’ condition5. Accessibility Adequate access, DDA compliance and ‘adequate daytime community use’6. Minimum 33m x 18m x 7.6m (based on Sport England guidance) acceptable size Multi-use (or small) Quantity standard 143.5 m2/1,000 people halls Quality Multi-use halls should be in at least ’adequate’ condition7. Accessibility Adequate access, DDA compliance and ‘adequate daytime community use’8.
5 ‘Adequate’ condition is defined as: Adequately maintained, with no signs of neglect. Sufficient changing accommodation for facilities available. Well lit for sport and recreation activities, as appropriate. At least adequate appearance. Clean and adequately decorated.
6 ‘Adequate daytime community use is defined as, “some availability for non-programmed use between 9am and 5pm, plus dedicated parking for day-time users”.
7 ‘Adequate’ condition is defined as: Adequately maintained, with no signs of neglect. Sufficient changing accommodation for facilities available. Well lit for sport and recreation activities, as appropriate. At least adequate appearance. Clean and adequately decorated.
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Type of facility Component Minimum provision standard Swimming pools Quantity standard 13.42 m2/1,000 people Quality Swimming pools (and ancillary facilities) should be in at least ’adequate’ condition9. Accessibility Adequate access, DDA compliance and ‘adequate daytime community use’10. Minimum f 25 metre swimming pool with 4 lanes and adequate acceptable size accommodation for competitors and spectators to stage local galas and events. f Teaching/learner swimming pool = dedicated area of shal7 - 10 years water for ‘teaching’ purposes. Synthetic turf pitches Quantity standard 333.49 m2/1,000 people (STPs) Quality STPs (and ancillary facilities) should be in at least ’good’ condition11. Accessibility Good access, DDA compliance and ‘adequate daytime community use’12. Acceptable size Minimum: Length (i.e., direction of play): 100m Width: 53m Maximum: Length (i.e., direction of play): 130m Width: 98m Indoor tennis courts Quantity standard 8.30 m2/1,000 people Quality Tennis courts should be in at least ’good’ condition13.
8 ‘Adequate daytime community use is defined as, “some availability for non-programmed use between 9am and 5pm, plus dedicated parking for day-time users”. 9 ‘Adequate’ condition is defined as: Adequately maintained, with no signs of neglect. Sufficient changing accommodation for facilities available. Well lit for sport and recreation activities, as appropriate. At least adequate appearance. Clean and adequately decorated.
10 ‘Adequate daytime community use is defined as, “some availability for non-programmed use between 9am and 5pm, plus dedicated parking for day-time users”.
11 ‘Good condition’ is defined as: Well decorated Well maintained, with no signs of neglect. Reasonable number of changing accommodation for available facilities. Well lit for sport and recreation activities, as appropriate. Well equipped, as appropriate. Effective storage space. Segregated changing and shower areas, as appropriate. Segregated, lockable changing areas, as appropriate.
12 ‘Adequate day-time community use is defined as, “some availability for non-programmed use between 9am and 5pm, plus dedicated parking for day-time users”.
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Type of facility Component Minimum provision standard Indoor tennis courts Accessibility Good access, DDA compliance and ‘adequate daytime continued community use’14. Minimum Indoor (air supported structures): acceptable size f One court – 20.97m x 37.77m f Two courts - 36.21m x 37.77m f Three courts – 51.45m x 37.77m f Four courts – 66.69m x 37.77m f Five courts – 81.93m x 37.77m f Six courts – 97.17m x 37.77m (+ runback – 7.00m, side run – 5.00m, in between courts – 4.27m) Outdoor tennis courts Quantity standard 435.38 m2/1,000 people Quality Tennis courts should be in at least ’good’ condition15. Accessibility Good access, DDA compliance and ‘adequate daytime community use’16. Minimum Outdoor: One court – 17.07m x 34.75m acceptable size Two courts – 31.70m x 34.75m Three courts – 46.33m x 34.75m Four courts – 60.96 x 34.75m Five courts – 75.59m x 34.75m Six courts – 90.22m x 34.75m (+ runback – 5.49m, side run – 3.05m, in between courts – 3.66m) Indoor bowling greens Quantity standard 4.98 m2/1,000 people Quality Indoor bowls facilities should be in at least ’good’ quality17.
13 ‘Good condition’ is defined as: Clear line markings Well maintained, with no signs of neglect. Reasonable changing/social accommodation for available facilities. Well lit for club and competition activities, as appropriate.
14 ‘Adequate day-time community use is defined as, “some availability for non-programmed use between 9am and 5pm, plus dedicated parking for day-time users”.
15 ‘Good condition’ is defined as: Clear line markings Well maintained, with no signs of neglect. Reasonable changing/social accommodation for available facilities. Well lit for club and competition activities, as appropriate.
16 ‘Adequate day-time community use is defined as, “some availability for non-programmed use between 9am and 5pm, plus dedicated parking for day-time users”.
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Type of facility Component Minimum provision standard Indoor bowling greens Accessibility Good access, DDA compliance and ‘adequate daytime continued community use’18. Minimum Indoor rink dimensions: Length = 36.5m acceptable size Width = 4.6m Outdoor bowling Quantity standard 2.62 m2/1,000 people greens Quality Outdoor bowls facilities should be in at least ’good’ quality19. Accessibility Good access, DDA compliance and ‘adequate daytime community use’20. Minimum Outdoor bowling greens: 6 rinks. acceptable size Multi-use games areas Quantity standard 78.96 m2/1,000 people Quality MUGAs should be in at least ’good’ condition21 and meet relevant British Standards.
Accessibility Unrestricted access to MUGAs on none-school sites and
full DDA compliance.
Minimum Length (i.e., direction of play): 40m acceptable size Width: 18m
17 ‘Good quality’ is defined as: Well decorated Well maintained, with no signs of neglect. Reasonable number of changing accommodation for available facilities. Well lit for sport and recreation activities, as appropriate. Well equipped, as appropriate. Effective storage space. Segregated changing and shower areas, as appropriate. Segregated, lockable changing areas, as appropriate.
18 ‘Adequate day-time community use is defined as, “some availability for non-programmed use between 9am and 5pm, plus dedicated parking for day-time users”.
19 ‘Good quality’ is defined as: Well decorated Well maintained, with no signs of neglect. Reasonable number of changing accommodation for available facilities. Well lit for sport and recreation activities, as appropriate. Well equipped, as appropriate. Effective storage space. Segregated changing and shower areas, as appropriate. Segregated, lockable changing areas, as appropriate.
20 ‘Adequate day-time community use is defined as, “some availability for non-programmed use between 9am and 5pm, plus dedicated parking for day-time users”.
21 ‘Good condition’ is defined as: Well maintained, with no signs of neglect. Floodlit for all-year round sport and recreation activities, as appropriate. Well equipped, as appropriate.
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Type of facility Component Minimum provision standard Fitness suites/gyms Quantity standard 7.57 m2/1,000 people Quality Fitness facilities should be in at least ’good’ condition22. Accessibility Day-time availability and full DDA compliance. Minimum 10 stations acceptable size Squash courts Quantity standard 5.24 m2/1,000 people Quality Squash courts should be in at least ’good’ condition23. Accessibility Good access, DDA compliance and ‘adequate daytime community use’24. Minimum Length: 9.75m acceptable size Width: 6.4m (between plastered surfaces). Recreation ground Quantity standard 5.35 m2/1,000 people pavilions/changing accommodation Quality Recreation ground pavilion changing accommodation should be in at least ’good’ condition25.
Accessibility Good access, DDA compliance and ‘adequate community use’26.
22 ‘Good condition’ is defined as: Well maintained, with no signs of neglect. Floodlit for all-year round sport and recreation activities, as appropriate. Well equipped, as appropriate.
23 ‘Good condition’ is defined as: Well decorated Well maintained, with no signs of neglect. Reasonable number of changing accommodation for available facilities. Well lit in accordance with NGB standards, as appropriate. Well equipped, as appropriate. Effective storage space. Segregated changing and shower areas, as appropriate. Segregated, lockable changing areas, as appropriate.
24 ‘Adequate day-time community use is defined as, “some availability for non-programmed use between 9am and 5pm, plus dedicated parking for day-time users”.
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Type of facility Component Minimum provision standard Recreation ground Minimum f The changing accommodation should be big pavilions/changing acceptable size enough to accommodate the largest number of accommodation players likely to use the room, including substitutes, continued coaches and, where applicable, the physiotherapist. f Generally the minimum area is calculated at 1m2 per person. However, cricket requires 1.2m2 minimum for players carrying kit bags, but kit boxes will justify more space. f Minimum recommended areas for teams for the principal sports are: Association football 16m2 Cricket 15m2 Hockey 16m2 Rugby – league and union 20m2 For tennis al7 - 10 years two changing spaces per court. For bowls at least 8+8 spaces and an officials’ room.
25 ‘Good condition’ is defined as: Well decorated Well maintained, with no signs of neglect. Reasonable number of changing accommodation for available facilities. Well lit for sport and recreation activities, as appropriate. Well equipped, as appropriate. Effective storage space. Segregated changing and shower areas, as appropriate. Segregated, lockable changing areas, as appropriate.
26 ‘Adequate community use is defined as, “available when pitches are available for competitive use”.
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