CASTLE POINT open spaces strategy 2008 - 2013 1
CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013 foreword
Foreword
The aim of the Open Spaces Strategy is to assess and analyse the quantity and quality of the existing open spaces within the Borough of Castle Point, to consider their varied functions and significance for the Borough and to consider them in the wider sense of the Council’s corporate objectives.
The Strategy sets out the vision for what the Council would like to achieve in terms of aims, objectives and broad policies for the Open Spaces within the Borough. This is based on an understanding of the supply, distribution, quality and level of use of the Open Spaces available, combined with the needs of the local communities within Castle Point.
A key component of the Strategy is the Action Plan, which provides a focus for the implementation of the Strategy. Methods for monitoring and review of the process have been developed to measure the progress and delivery of the aims of the Strategy. CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013 contents
1. Introduction 5 1.1 Introduction to the open spaces 5 strategy 1.2 The importance of open spaces 5 1.3 Castle Point Borough Council 6 vision for open spaces
2. Priorities for the strategy 8 2.1 The priorities 8 2.2 Addressing the priorities 9
3. Policies and proposals 13 3.1 Provision by open space type 13 3.1.1 Country Parks 14 3.1.2 Urban parks and gardens 17 3.1.3 Natural and semi-natural areas 19 3.1.4 Green corridors 22 3.1.5 Outdoor sports facilities 25 3.1.6 Amenity Green Spaces 29 3.1.7 Provision for young people and 33 children 3.1.8 Allotments and community 38 gardens 3.1.9 Churchyards and cemeteries 42 3.1.10 Thames Estuary and waterfront 45
4. Delivery of the strategy 48 4.1 The Action Plan 48 4.2 Further Work/Research Required 72 4.3 Resources 75 4.4 Timescales 76 4.5 Monitoring and Review 76
A. Appendix 1 78 A.1 Appendix 1 Part 1 78 A.2 Appendix 1 Part 2 78 CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
1 introduction 5
1 Introduction
1.1 Introduction to the open spaces strategy
This strategy has been developed because it is one of the key objectives in the Council’s Corporate Plan and it forms one of the delivery plans of the Recreation Framework. It aims to meet longer term objectives of providing the residents of Castle Point with a cleaner, greener environment and therefore to increase residents’ levels of satisfaction with open spaces in the Borough. This strategy addresses the challenges set out in the Castle Point Sustainable Community Strategy, particularly Ambition 2 “making our environment cleaner and greener”.
This document has been put together using the results of public consultation, specialist advice, the guidance from related policy and the aims and objectives of the Council. The strategy sets out key actions for the open spaces in the Borough and an overall Action Plan has been developed for which the Council has the responsibility of delivery. The delivery of the actions will address the issues and priorities that were highlighted in the Recreation Framework.
1.2 The importance of open spaces
In the survey carried out for the Castle Point Sustainable Community Strategy 86% of residents agreed that making Castle Point a pleasant, clean and green place to live is an important priority for the Borough. It is clear that open spaces are important to residents and this ties in with national studies which show that good quality facilities for sport and recreation have a significant effect on the quality of life for local residents. Good quality open spaces also increase residents’ sense of pride regarding the local area and improved recreational opportunities can help to reduce levels of anti-social behaviour.
Open spaces provide an informal element to recreation in Castle Point, enabling residents and visitors to undertake activities such as walking and cycling. There are also many spaces that are used for more structured sporting activities, such as pitches for football and grounds for sports like cricket. An important aspect of open spaces is that there are many areas in the Borough that have been set aside for fixed play areas for children. Play is an important issue within Castle Point and the future delivery for playgrounds in the Borough has been set out in the Castle Point Play Strategy.
On a more strategic level, good quality open space is important in a number of ways. The importance of open spaces and their contribution to the recreation and physical exercise opportunities for the people of Essex have been recognised in the Essex Local Area Agreement (LAA). The priorities within the Essex LAA have been incorporated into the Castle Point Sustainable Community Strategy, which is a document that was put together by the Castle Point Local Strategic Partnership (LSP). The LSP is a range of organisations that have been brought together in order to work towards making improvements to all aspects of the present and future needs CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
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of the Borough. The Castle Point Sustainable Community Strategy has identified several key targets for open spaces and physical recreation in the Borough to be met by 2012. These are:
At least 75% of residents to be satisfied with parks and open spaces. A Green Flag Award will be achieved for at least one park in the Borough. All parks will be assessed as high quality. Increase satisfaction with play areas in Castle Point, for children and their carers. And to increase the percentage of the adult population participating in at least 30 minutes of sport or active recreation, three times a week from 18.3% to 24% by 2021.
In order to achieve these targets the Council will work together with other partners in the LSP. The key partners that the Council envisages working with include Essex County Council, Canvey Island Town Council, Essex Wildlife Trust, Groundwork and Castle Point Wildlife Group.
Good quality open space can also help to make the Borough more attractive to businesses, investors and tourists, therefore improving employment opportunities and the economic development of the area. Open space is an important consideration within regeneration plans, since it has a wide ranging influence in terms of: the local economy; health levels of the local community; a reduction in crime and fear of crime; community links; sustainable transport (through cycle paths and walkways); and on levels of biodiversity. Castle Point has been chosen to host the 2012 Olympic Games mountain-bike events. These will take place at Hadleigh Castle Country Park and should bring great benefits to the Borough. It is possible that this event will bring investment and funding for the open spaces in the Borough, in particular at Hadleigh Castle Country Park. It will also raise the profile of the area and raise awareness of the sporting and recreational potential of open spaces in Castle Point, both for residents and for visitors to the area.
1.3 Castle Point Borough Council vision for open spaces
The Open Spaces strategy is designed to support the Council’s vision of open spaces in Castle Point, as set out in the Borough’s Local Development Framework Core Strategy:
“Castle Point will appear much greener and sustainable, and there will be greater access to recreational opportunities in the natural environment. The Metropolitan Green Belt will continue to separate existing settlements, support an open and attractive green environment, and provide opportunities for outdoor recreation, nature conservation, and woodland. A Green Grid structure will link together urban and rural areas, and connect a more diverse pattern of open spaces. Formal space will have good quality, well designed and distinctive furniture and playgrounds. The natural environment will be well managed and support a range of biodiversity. SSSIs and wildlife sites will be in a favourable condition and other sites including Canvey Heights, Canvey Lake, Canvey Marshes and the Seafront will play an enhanced role in the habitat mosaic of the Borough” CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
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This leads on to an overarching vision for the Open Spaces Strategy for Castle Point:
Our vision is well managed, easily accessible and high quality open space that provides for the needs of the entire community. CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
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2 Priorities for the strategy
2.1 The priorities
An Open Space Appraisal was carried out between July 2005 and February 2006 to identify local needs and audit local provision of open space in Castle Point, as well as to set provision standards for this strategy. Key objectives for the open spaces in the Borough were identified as part of the study and a public consultation was also carried out so that the views of the community were taken into account. The key objectives and information from the consultation were used to identify a number of priorities for the improvement of open spaces in the Borough. Policies within the strategy will be based on these and focus on:
1. Adopting sustainable practises
- in terms of site construction and management and regarding modes of transport.
2. Improving accessibility
- physical accessibility to and within sites.
- intellectual accessibility, increasing awareness and access to information regarding Open Spaces.
3. Improving connectivity between Open Spaces
- increasing provision in terms of public transport links, Public Rights of Way and signage.
4. Improving biodiversity
- incorporating local standards for natural and semi-natural areas within developments.
- protecting and enhancing priority species and habitats identified by supporting studies.
5. Reflecting local character
- using local materials, existing cultural aspects of the landscape (e.g. ditches, drains and salt marshes) and designing locally distinctive sites.
6. Raising the standard of Open Space and improving quality
- protecting and enhancing existing provision.
- ensuring that provision standards are met in all future development work.
7. Tackling poor play areas
- improving the quality and accessibility of current provision. CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
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- providing varied opportunities for play for a wide range of ages and abilities.
8. Provision of facilities for all sectors of society
- providing facilities for groups that are currently ill-served by the Borough to date, including young people, the elderly and the disabled.
9. Providing more facilities and spaces where necessary
- providing more public open spaces for communities that are currently suffering a deficiency in open spaces for recreation.
2.2 Addressing the priorities
This section sets out how the council intends to address each of these nine emerging priorities.
1. Adopting sustainable practises
The council will: i) Create a list of local sustainable sources of services and products that can be accessible from the Council’s website. This will be updated periodically. ii) Incorporate sustainable construction and management techniques as part of new design proposals and establish how they could be applied to existing sites. iii) Re-consider management practises for all sites to minimise the use of non-renewable resources. iv) Re-evaluate management practises annually to make sure that sites and services are as sustainable as possible. v) Promote sustainable modes of transport to and from public open spaces.
2. Improving accessibility
The council will: i) Improve web-based information and produce literature to improve accessibility to information on open spaces. ii) Improve accessibility across the entire Borough by developing a programme for change where key sites are improved to a high standard in initial changes, followed subsequently by other sites. iii) Focus on physical accessibility to and within sites encompassing current best practise for designing for people with disabilities. CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
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iv) Embrace ‘secure by design’ principles including encouraging natural surveillance, visibility, the installation of appropriate lighting schemes and other security measures.
v) Maintain charges for the use of sports facilities to balance maintenance costs but to encourage opportunities for all sectors of the community.
3. Improving connectivity between open spaces
The council will:
i) Conduct a public open space connectivity and signage study and improvement programme.
ii) Target the provision of well connected Public Rights of Way networks and public transport systems to link residents with open space and recreation facilities, with proposals feeding in to the Essex Local Transport Plan, the Essex Public Rights of Way Improvement Plan and the South Essex Green Grid Strategy.
4. Improving biodiversity
The council will:
i) Create management plans or review management practises at sites where appropriate. This will ensure that wildlife is protected and habitats are enhanced at all sites.
ii) Evaluate environmental management practises annually.
iii) Ensure that policy documents will incorporate local standards for natural and semi-natural areas within developments, based on the Castle Point Borough Habitat Survey and Wildlife Site Review.
iv) Ensure that public open spaces are managed and developed to protect and enhance Natural England’s Local Biodiversity Action Plan priority species and habitats.
5. Reflecting local character
The council will:
i) Integrate communities into design processes, especially concentrating on ‘problem’ or ‘hard to reach’ groups.
Ii) Work with community groups to improve the identity of public open spaces.
iii) Ensure through planning that, where possible, cultural features of the landscape, such as ditches, drains and salt marshes, are retained. CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
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6. Raising the standard of open space and improving quality
The council will: i) Implement new management strategies for all sites. ii) Achieve at least one Green Flag standard open space by 2012. iii) Prioritise the cleaning up of the Borough. iv) Ensure that dog-fouling at sites is eradicated by improving signage and increasing awareness. The Council will also provide dog-free areas where necessary and provide/replace dog toilets as necessary. v) Meet targets specified for the open space types detailed in “Provision by open space type”. vi) Apply the provision standards set in the open spaces appraisal to any new developments within the Borough and should be included in any allocation for new development in addition to criteria based policy for development control. vii) Retain, enhance and protect the Green Belt.
7. Tackling poor play areas
The council will: i) As a priority, develop a rolling programme for improving play facilities across the Borough. ii) Ensure that new and existing play facilities are sensitive to the landscape and townscape setting. iii) Ensure that existing and new play facilities offer varied opportunities for play for a wide range of ages and abilities.
8. Provision of facilities for all sectors of society
The council will: i) Work with other agencies to integrate communities into design processes, especially concentrating on ‘hard to reach’ groups. ii) Undertake a playing pitch strategy to inform supply and demand in the Borough. iii) Provide facilities for groups that are currently ill-served by the Borough. CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
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9. Providing more facilities and spaces where necessary
The council will:
i) Provide more facilities and spaces, where possible, for communities in areas of the Borough that are currently suffering from a deficiency of public open space for recreation, particularly regarding amenity green space, children and young people, urban parks and gardens, country parks and natural and semi-natural areas. CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
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3 Policies and proposals
3.1 Provision by open space type
There are various types of open spaces within Castle Point and for the purposes of the Open Space Strategy these have been divided into the following categories:
Country parks
Urban parks and gardens
Natural and semi-natural areas
Green corridors
Outdoor sports facilities
Amenity green spaces
Provision for children and young people
Allotments
Cemeteries and churchyards
The Thames Estuary
The locations of all the open spaces considered in this strategy are shown in Appendix 1.
The open spaces have been placed in the different categories by determining how each site is used by the majority of people visiting the site. However, even though the open spaces in the Borough have been categorised in this way, most of the sites will also meet the criteria of other categories of open spaces and will therefore fulfil more than one function. For example, a country park may also have areas of natural and semi-natural open space. This is important where a lack of a particular type of open space is evident within parts of the Borough because other categories of open space will be able to provide for the deficiency.
Key improvements, objectives and actions have been identified for each category of open space. These were determined through the work carried out in the Open Space Appraisal, as well as taking into account the aims and priorities set out in the Recreation Framework. The following section is set out by category and for every category there is:
an explanation of the benefits of the open space. a list of the sites present in the Borough and brief description. the average area of open space available per person in the Borough (in hectares). the average distance/time a resident would have to travel to the nearest site. CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
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the recommended levels for area per person and average distance to the nearest site (as set out in the Open Space Appraisal). a quality vision for each category (as set out in the Open Space Appraisal). a summary of improvements needed. a list of key objectives and actions.
3.1.1 Country Parks
i) Introduction
Country parks are important for the community in a number of ways:
They provide areas where people can have fun and enjoy the countryside They support environmental sustainability by helping to counter pollution and providing habitats for wildlife The history of the landscape can contribute to local heritage and culture and help to instil a feeling of local pride They have an emphasis on wildlife conservation, biodiversity and environmental education and awareness
The Borough has three country parks:
Hadleigh Castle Country Park Canvey Heights Country Park Two Tree Island (as part of Hadleigh Castle Country Park)
In total the sites have a combined area of 215.97 hectares, providing 2.578 hectares of open space per 1,000 people in the Borough.
Hadleigh Castle Country Park is an historic landscape that is divided into four main areas: Two Tree Island, Hadleigh Castle, Belton Hills and the combined site of Hadleigh Marsh and Benfleet Downs. Together, the sites provide a high quality, local and Borough-wide facility for education, exercise and entertainment. One of the main strengths of the Country Park is the diversity of the landscapes that can be found within it, including salt marshes and marshland, woodland and grassland. There are a number of footpaths crossing private land that provide connections between the sites.
Canvey Heights Country Park, located on the eastern side of Canvey Island, is a more recently created country park that was previously used as a land fill site. It is one of the highest points on Canvey Island and offers spectacular views over Southend-on-sea and Canvey Island. The naturalising landscape is developing as heathland and is fast becoming a haven for bird and insect life. CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
3 policies and proposals 15 ii) Quantity and accessibility provision
The current and recommended levels of quantity and accessibility are shown in the table below:
Current Recommended
Quantity 2.578 ha per 1000 2.936 ha per 1000 people
Accessibility >20 minute drive to nearest 2400 metres or a 10 minute drive site for most residents to the nearest site
Table 3.1 Current and recommended levels of quantity and accessibility for Country Parks in the Borough.
iii) Vision
The Borough’s country parks are welcoming places that have high habitat value to promote biodiversity. They contain a hierarchy of routes with accessible tracks, accommodate a range of uses and activities and also include interpretation methods and opportunities for education. Parking needs have been accommodated but do not dominate and each park is well sign-posted for foot, cycle and vehicular traffic. Prominent views have been retained and sustainable methods of design and management have been employed where possible.
In general the Borough’s country parks are of good quality but there are several improvements that could be made in order to work towards achieving the vision. Deficiencies in quantity can be reduced with the creation of a new country park at Canvey Wick (on the western side of Canvey Island). After the creation of Canvey Wick the only major area of the Borough that will not meet the recommended accessibility level is Thundersley. There is no scope for extra provision in Thundersley so other open space types will continue to be of greater importance in this area.
To work towards the above vision country parks in the Borough need the following improvements:
Improve welcome and entrance areas at Canvey Heights and Hadleigh Castle Country Park Improve accessibility for disabled people and consider installing an accessible track at Canvey Heights and Hadleigh Castle Country Park Improve signage to the country parks from existing, wider pathway networks Assess parking needs for all country parks Improve interpretation methods where necessary (eg. pointing out directions of other places from Canvey Heights). CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
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iv) Key Objectives for the Council
Work with Essex County Council, The Land Restoration Trust and the RSPB to:
Protect and enhance the current provision of country parks in the Borough Prioritise upgrading access to all country parks for disabled people Improve signage to all country parks for pedestrians, cyclists and drivers
Key Actions (in Outcomes Priority Timescale Performance order of priority) No(s) Indicator
1. Work with the Land New country 2,4, 6,9 Ongoing Number of country Restoration Trust park provision parks in the (LRT) to develop for the Borough is Canvey Wick SSSI as Borough increased a Country Park
2. Work with ECC to Hadleigh 2, 4, 2011/12 Number of improve access and Castle 6 residents pleased quality of Hadleigh Country Park with park is Castle Country meets the set increased Park quality levels (established through the Place Survey and NI5 & NI138)
3. Seek resources to Canvey 2, 4, 5, Long term Number of implement the Heights meets 6 2013+ residents pleased business plan for the the set quality with park is enhancement of levels increased Canvey Heights (established Country Park through the Place Survey and NI5 & NI138)
4. Support the RSPB New nature 2, 4, 6, Long term Nature reserve and LRT in creating reserve for the 9 2013+ created new nature reserves Borough on the western part of Canvey Island
Table 3.2 Key actions for Country Parks in the Borough. CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
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3.1.2 Urban parks and gardens i) Introduction
Urban parks and gardens are generally formal, green open spaces that are accessible and of high quality. They are important to the community because they:
Provide a central community focus Provide a sense of place and setting for the wider area Offer opportunities for informal recreation and community events
The Open Space Appraisal determined, on the basis of primary use of sites, that the Borough of Castle Point has one urban garden, which is Dutch Cottage Gardens.
The site has an area of 0.1 hectares, providing 0.001 hectares of open space per 1,000 people in the Borough.
The Dutch Cottage, on Canvey Island, is not located in a built up area but lies on the western edge of the A130. The small thatched cottage (dated 1618) sits within a small garden that is also used for exhibiting relics from the Dutch period on Canvey Island. ii) Quantity and accessibility provision
The current and recommended levels of quantity and accessibility are shown in the table below.
Current Recommended
Quantity 0.001 ha per 1000 people 0.103 ha per 1000 people
Accessibility >15 minute walk in most of 720 metre straight-line distance Borough (excluding west or 15 minute walk Canvey)
Table 3.3 Current and recommended levels for quantity and accessibility for Urban Parks and Gardens in the Borough. iii) Vision
The Borough’s urban parks and gardens provide a planned, formal open space, which incorporate a number of attractive visual features including planting and trees, and adopt ‘secure by design’ principles. They are clean, dog foul free, appropriately maintained, accessible to all, have a locally appropriate identity, are well connected to existing pedestrian routes and cycle ways and are designed and maintained to promote sustainability. They also provide seating and bins. CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
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Dutch Cottage is generally a good example of an urban park or garden, but there are some issues, mainly concerning accessibility, that need to be overcome in order to reach the levels set in the open space appraisal. Since the site is the only one in the Borough there is clearly a lack of accessibility for a large section of the Borough. Provision could be increased if other open spaces within the Borough were brought up to standard so they could be re-classified as urban parks and gardens. Pinnacle have been requested to commit to developing a plan for upgrading Woodside Open Space to an urban park.
To work towards achieving the above vision the following improvements should be made:
Improve accessibility to the site Improve connectivity to pathway networks Provide seating and bins
iv) Key Objectives for the Council
Protect and improve local access to existing facilities to increase usage levels Investigate the feasibility of developing and improving other sites as urban parks or gardens to improve accessibility provision, potentially through HLF funding.
Key Actions (in order Outcomes Priority Timescale Performance of priority) No(s) Indicator
1. Work with ECC and More people 2, 3, 5, Long term Numbers of Benfleet and District visit the site 6 visitors to the site Historical Society to 2013+ are increased improve access and (Place interpretation for Dutch Survey/residents Cottage Gardens survey)
2. Seek resources to Sites reach 6, 9 2011/12 Review changes implement changes for urban (Place the enhancement of St park/garden Survey/residents James-the-less quality levels survey) Churchyard and Labworth Recreation Ground CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
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Key Actions (in order Outcomes Priority Timescale Performance of priority) No(s) Indicator
3. Carry out a feasibility A decision can 6, 9 2011/12 Study is study for upgrading be made completed Woodside Open Space regarding
plans for Woodside Open Space
Table 3.4 Key actions for Urban Parks and Gardens in the Borough.
3.1.3 Natural and semi-natural areas i) Introduction
Natural and semi-natural areas include woodlands, urban forests, scrub, grasslands, wetlands, open and running water, nature reserves and wastelands. Their primary purpose is wildlife conservation, environmental education and biodiversity. These sites are important in a variety of ways:
They create an attractive environment, thus improving quality of life and sustainable communities They provide sustainable habitats and support biodiversity They contribute to the identity and character of an area They can provide a recreational amenity
The Open Space Appraisal determined, on the basis of primary use of sites, that the Borough of Castle Point has 18 areas of open spaces that have been characterised as areas of natural and semi-natural areas. These are:
Arthur Stevens Open Space The Glen, Thundersley
St Michael’s Church Shipwright’s Wood
Thundersley Great Common North Benfleet Hall Wood
Coombe Wood Starvelarks Wood
Little Common Tile Wood
Wyburn Wood Pound Wood
Great Wood Nature Reserve Dodds Grove
Great Wood Golf Course West Wood
Fane Wood Tewkes Creek CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
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In total the sites cover an area of 204.46 hectares, providing 2.377 hectares of open space per 1,000 people in the Borough. Not all of these sites are controlled by the Council, therefore improvements to many of the sites will require the Council to work with many different partners including Essex County Council, voluntary groups such as the Friends of Coombe Wood and charities like the Castle Point Wildlife Group.
Spaces that are predominantly composed of woodlands make up 14 of the 18 natural and semi-natural areas. In general, the best quality and most accessible natural and semi-natural areas are found in the north of Benfleet where there are several ancient woodlands including Pound Wood, Tile Wood, Wyburn Wood, Starvelarks Wood, West Wood, Belfairs Nature Reserve and Dodd’s Grove. In general these woodlands are well managed, with several of them having profitable coppicing regimes in place. In others the woodlands are managed by local Friends Groups, such as North Benfleet Hall Wood in Thundersley, which is being managed by Castle Point Wildlife Group.
Of the other non-wooded sites in Benfleet, Thundersley Great Common has the widest diversity of landscapes, including heathland. The other three non-wooded sites are Arthur Stevens Open Space, St Michael’s Church and Little Common, Thundersley. Arthur Stevens Open Space is the only accessible grassland in Benfleet and had great potential in terms of recreational and ecological value.
ii) Quantity and accessibility provision
The current and recommended quantity and accessibility levels are shown in the table below.
Current Recommended
Quantity 2.377 ha per 1000 people 2.377 ha per 1000 people
Accessibility Variable with some >15 minute 720 metres or a 15 minute walk walk and some <15 minutes to the nearest site
Table 3.5 Current and recommended levels of quantity and accessibility for Natural and Semi-Natural Areas in the Borough.
iii) Vision
Natural and semi-natural green space in Castle Point provides a well-connected series of natural open spaces that are well sign-posted from footpaths, are clean, provide seating and bins where appropriate, are creatively managed and encourage education, learning and biodiversity. The most valuable natural and semi-natural spaces are being protected and preserved for future generations to enjoy. CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
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In general the Borough’s natural and semi-natural spaces are of good quality. Particular areas to focus on in terms of priorities for improvement are Arthur Stevens Open Space, Fane Wood and Tewkes Creek, which have all been rated as being of average quality. Another particular area for improvement is Thundersley Great Common SSSI, which needs to be brought up to standard in order to comply with SSSI PSA targets.
At present, the only area in the Borough which currently meets the quantity standard is Hadleigh owing to the various nearby woodlands and Hadleigh Castle Country Park, which fulfils many of the roles of natural and semi-natural areas. Canvey Heights Country Park and the proposed Canvey Wick Country Park will fulfil many of the roles of natural and semi-natural areas for the residents of Canvey Island. There is limited opportunity for the creation of a natural or semi-natural site for residents of south Benfleet and Thundersley so other types of open space must compensate for this.
In order to achieve the vision for natural and semi-natural areas the following general improvements should be made:
Improve footpath connectivity to the wider footpath network Improve accessibility if possible and consider accessible tracks and gateways Improve signage to the country parks from existing, wider pathway networks Consider ways to better integrate natural open spaces into their respective adjacent communities Consider locally sourced and site specific street furniture where necessary Protect valuable natural and semi-natural open spaces through local policy Continue to improve management techniques to encourage biodiversity and the achievement of local BAPs. iv) Key Objectives
Protect and enhance the current level of provision of natural and semi-natural green space in the Borough Protect and enhance all sites of high value to the community, improving accessibility and connectivity to the wider footpath network to maintain and encourage levels of use Investigate and improve (where appropriate) accessibility to sites for people using wheelchairs and pushchairs Continue to maintain and improve management techniques within natural open spaces to promote biodiversity and wildlife habitats CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
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Key Actions (in order Outcomes Priority Timescale Performance of priority) No(s) Indicator
1. Work with Natural SSSI is in a 4, 6 2010 Assessment by England and other recovering / Natural England partners to bring improving Thundersley Great state Common SSSI up to SSSI PSA standards.
2. Work with Essex More sites 2, 4, ongoing Number of open Wildlife Trust, the have active 6 spaces and Local Castle Point Wildlife management Wildlife Sites Group, the Groundwork plans (LoWS) with Trust and local management “Friends” groups to plans is increased maintain and improve (Assessed by natural open spaces NI197) and promote biodiversity and wildlife habitats – particularly at West Wood and Coombe Wood.
3. Implement All 2, 3, 5, 2012 Number of visitors improvements non-wooded 6 to each site is suggested in the Open natural open increased (Place Spaces Appraisal at spaces are Survey/Residents Fane Wood and Arthur well Survey) Stevens Open Space. managed
Table 3.6 Key actions for Natural and Semi-Natural Open Spaces in the Borough.
3.1.4 Green corridors
i) Introduction
Green corridors include towpaths or paths along riverbanks and canals, cycle ways through linear green spaces, and some rights of way (eg. disused railway lines). Their main purpose is to provide opportunities for walking, cycling and horse riding, whether for leisure purposes or travel, and opportunities for wildlife migration. Green corridors are important in a number of ways: CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
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They provide connections between open spaces for wildlife, particularly in urban areas where wildlife habitats have become cut off from each other They provide links between open spaces within the urban area, promoting transport by walking and cycling and providing opportunities for informal recreation.
There are two green corridors in Castle Point at present:
The Lake + Southwick Dyke
Thames Esplanade
Both of the Green Corridors are extremely important local facilities and promote sustainable forms of transport such as walking and cycling. The Lake and Southwick Dyke make up the same Green Corridor but they have different uses and character. This is mostly owing to the levels of natural surveillance at each site, with Southwick Dyke having less and therefore suffering more antisocial behaviour such as motorbike racing.
The Thames Esplanade is a unique green corridor because it connects key urban features plus it provides access to the Thames Estuary and encompasses the sea defence. The pathway along the Esplanade is used for cycling and walking and there are access points from the roadway at various places along the path, including one access point at the top of the hill that provides disabled parking spaces. ii) Quantity and accessibility provision
The quantity and accessibility levels cannot be easily determined and recommended levels cannot be set. This is because the need for green corridors arises from the need to promote environmentally sustainable forms of transport (such as walking and cycling) within urban areas. Therefore the provision needed is specific to each Borough. iii) Vision
The potential for accessible green corridors to be used for cycling and walking has been maximised with good links to surrounding footpath networks. The landscape is managed to promote biodiversity and provides a good quality, clean and accessible environment which encourages frequent use. Signage to and from all sites is good and seating is provided for rest where appropriate.
In general the Borough’s green corridors are of average quality and provide good opportunities for recreation. The Thames Estuary is a particularly popular site and is a source of income for the Borough through the tourist industry. However, there are still some improvements that need to be made before the green corridors meet the quality standards set in the council’s vision for green corridors in the Borough:
Improve footpath connectivity to the wider footpath and cycle network within both the Borough and the County CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
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Improve accessibility for people with disabilities Provide rest opportunities where appropriate Consider changes to management and maintenance to improve biodiversity
iv) Key Objectives
Explore creating more green corridors that link up existing green open spaces. Improve accessibility by wheelchair and pushchair for all sites Explore all new opportunities to develop the green corridor network throughout the Borough, as well as linking to existing networks within the County Explore opportunities to improve levels of biodiversity Provide a co-ordinated approach to street furniture proposals including lighting
Key Actions (in order Outcomes Priority Timescale Performance of priority) No(s) Indicator
1. Work with the The sites are 2, 3, 6 2012 Numbers of Groundwork Trust and more people using the Canvey Island Town frequented site is increased Council in order to: (Place Survey/ More Residents a) improve the quality of sustainable Survey) The Lake and Southwick modes of Dyke areas and access transport are Numbers of to them encouraged green corridor links to sites b) improve access Green corridor outside the between The Lake and lengths are Borough are Tewkes Creek increased increased c) improve green corridor links to existing networks within the Borough
2. Work with Essex Levels of 4 ongoing Surveys of sites Wildlife Trust, Castle biodiversity at show increased Point Wildlife Group and sites are numbers of other partners to change increased different species maintenance and (Essex Wildlife management techniques Trust surveys) to improve levels of biodiversity at sites CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
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Key Actions (in order Outcomes Priority Timescale Performance of priority) No(s) Indicator
3. Conduct a public more green 3 2013 Number of open space connectivity corridors are green corridors and signage study established in the Borough is increased design of sites is more cohesive through the Borough
Table 3.7 Key actions for Green Corridors in the Borough.
3.1.5 Outdoor sports facilities i) Introduction
Outdoor sports facilities include all sports facilities found outside and all facilities included in this category have the primary purpose of participation in outdoor sports.
The provision of space for outdoor sports is vitally important as it helps to achieve national, regional and local targets in terms of encouraging participation in sport to improve health and well-being across the Borough. Provision of good outdoor sports facilities is particularly significant at the current time owing to the announcement that the Borough will be hosting the mountain biking events for the 2012 Olympic Games. This is likely to highlight the levels of provision for all types of sports and recreational activities within open spaces in the Borough so it is important that improvements are made where a need has been highlighted in the Open Space Appraisal. It is likely that the influence of the 2012 Olympic Games will encourage the uptake of sports and outdoor activities by residents in the Borough and therefore improvements and investment in outdoor sports and recreation are vital for Castle Point.
A site audit of outdoor sports facility sites identified a total of 40 sites, some of which were public facilities, some private and some that are facilities owned and used by educational establishments such as schools and colleges. The sites identified were:
Woodside Park Playing Fields Canvey FC
Smallgains Recreational Ground Tewkes Creek Recreation Ground
Waterside Farm Recreation Ground Northwick Playing Fields
The Chase Playing Fields Hadleigh Tennis Club
Haven Road Recreation Ground Castle Point Golf Course CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
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Boyce Hill Golf Course Kingston Primary School
Thundersley Infant and Junior Schools Cedar Hall School
King John Senior School The Deanes School
Appleton School Kents Hill Infant and Junior Schools
Jotmans Hall Primary Schools Robert Drake Primary School
Montgomerie Junior and Infant School Glenwood School
Hadleigh Junior School Westwood Primary School
South Benfleet Primary School St Katherines Primary School
St Josephs Primary School South Benfleet Playing Fields
Lubbins Park Primary Schools Concord Rovers Pitch
William Read Primary School Canvey Infant and Junior Schools
Castle View School Cornelius Vermuyden School
Furtherwick Park School John H Burrows Recreation Ground
King George V Playing Fields (Canvey) Thundersley Great Common Recreation Ground
Leigh Beck Nursery, Infant & Junior Schools
Northwick Park Nursery, Infant and Junior Schools
In total the sites have a combined area of 278.62 hectares, providing a current level of provision of 3.217 hectares of open space per 1,000 people in the Borough. These figures include school facilities (which are usually closed to the public) and two golf courses (which are proportionally of a much larger area than most outdoor sports facilities). Leaving schools and golf courses out of the calculation gives a total of 101.18 hectares and a current provision level of 1.168 hectares per 1000 people.
The largest public pitch sport sites in the Borough are Waterside Farm, South Benfleet Playing Fields and John H Burrows Recreation Ground. There are other types of sports facilities available to the public, the most notable of which are at the entrance to Canvey Island where there is an 18 hole golf course and additional facilities at Waterside Farm. The golfing facilities also include a driving range and are currently contracted out to Glendales management. The Waterside Farm site also contains the Borough’s only fully accessible synthetic turf pitch and floodlit running track. Many of the sites cater for a range of sporting uses such as football, cricket, outdoor bowls and horse riding. Fishing is also catered for at Woodside Lake and Canvey Lake. CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
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Private facilities within the Borough tend to be private clubs who own their own pitches and allow little or no public access, although they do provide sporting opportunities to local people. Other private facilities of note are the 18 hole golf course in South Benfleet and the tennis club in Hadleigh.
With regard to educational facilities, all have access to outdoor sports facilities. Where their own facilities prove inadequate there is the opportunity to use Council facilities such as the running track at Waterside Farm. ii) Quantity and accessibility provision
The current and recommended levels of quantity and accessibility are shown in the table below.
Current Recommended
Quantity 3.217 ha per 1000 people 3.217 ha per 1000 people
Accessibility Generally > 20 minute walk 2400 metres or a 10 minute time drive
Table 3.8 Current and recommended levels of quantity and accessibility for Outdoor Sports Facilities in the Borough. iii) Vision
Outdoor sports facilities in the Borough provide for a broad range of sports and ages and are equipped with good quality ancillary facilities including markings and facilities for spectators, where appropriate. Parking needs are accommodated but do not dominate and facilities are well sign-posted for foot, cycle and vehicular traffic. Pitches are level and well-drained and are maintained to allow regular use, both informal and formal. All facilities aim to meet minimum technical specifications set by the appropriate governing body. Management practises to the periphery of pitches are varied to encourage biodiversity.
Although a recommended quantity level has been given, it is difficult to apply it because different sports facilities vary in the amount of hectares needed and thus comparisons between provision levels in different parts of the Borough may not highlight deficiencies in different types of sports facility.
Access to sports facilities, in terms of distance to a site, is good within the Borough, with residents across the Borough having access to some sort of sports facility. However, there is only limited value in applying the accessibility level to the Borough because the facilities a person wishes to use may not be within the allotted catchment area. CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
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The quality of sites around the Borough is variable and can lead to problems with accessibility. For example, factors such as low quality parking or barriers at entrances cause a restriction in accessibility to sites. The quality of ancillary facilities, such as toilets and changing facilities is also a major issue. In addition to this sites generally lack dog waste bins, have poor signage and a lack of facilities for cyclists.
The following general improvements should be made to achieve the vision set out above:
Undertake a playing pitch strategy or similar to determine the distribution of specific sports facilities and highlight where a better range of sports facilities could be provided Distribute a range of good quality facilities throughout the Borough. As a priority, make sure that well used sites meet quality standards Consider changes to management and maintenance regimes on the periphery of pitches to improve biodiversity Improve ancillary facilities, features and buildings to make outdoor sports facilities pleasant places not only for sportspeople but also for spectators Consider improving parking facilities at sites where there is a proven demand Long term consideration (when finances allow) should be given to the provision of an artificial surface on Canvey Island
iv) Key Objectives
Continue working at a local and regional level to protect and enhance the existing level of provision Castle Point Borough Council to seek to work with local schools to open up their sports facilities for common use where appropriate Prioritise for improvement those sites that have high usage but have quality or access issues Upgrade facilities, improve access and develop long term provision and types of sports that do not meet standards Undertake a playing pitch strategy to develop a better understanding of facility distribution within the Borough The provision of easily accessible information on the Castle Point Borough Council website regarding details of all sports facilities in the Borough, including dual use and private, as well as details of teams and clubs for different sports in the Borough. On the website there should also be appropriate links to external clubs and events that are updated annually.
Key Actions (in Outcomes Priority Timescale Performance order of priority) No(s) Indicator
1. Update the Information is 2 2010 In surveys more Council’s website easily accessible residents are and make and residents aware of the opportunities CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
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Key Actions (in Outcomes Priority Timescale Performance order of priority) No(s) Indicator
information regarding are encouraged available (Place all open spaces to use the sites survey/Residents (including sports survey) facilities) more accessible
2. Undertake a The Council has 7, 8, 9 2013 Playing pitch playing pitch a better strategy has been strategy understanding of carried out facility distribution in the Borough
3. Work with Essex Increased 8, 9 Long term Number of County Council and outdoor sports outdoor sports local educational facilities for the facilities in the establishments to Borough Borough is open up their sports increased facilities for common use
Table 3.9 Key actions for Outdoor Sports Facilities in the Borough
3.1.6 Amenity Green Spaces i) Introduction
These types of open spaces are most commonly found in housing areas. They include informal recreation spaces and green spaces in and around housing. Their primary purpose is to provide opportunities for informal activities close to home or work, or to enhance the appearance of residential or other areas. They are important in a number of different ways:
They provide local access to green open spaces They improve the quality of life for residents They provide areas for recreation They improve the aesthetic value of places by softening hard architectural lines, lining streets and providing visual features They can create a stronger sense of civic pride
The Borough has 16 formally classified amenity green spaces:
The Crescent Recreation Ground King George V Playing Fields (Benfleet)
Memorial Ground Runnymede Paddocks CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
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Swans Green Recreation Ground Tarpots Recreation Ground
Woodside Park Beveland Open Space
The Gun Site Recreation Ground Kismet Park
Labworth Park Leigh Beck Recreation Ground
The Paddocks Dyke Crescent
Villa Road Recreation Ground Russell Head Farm
(currently privately owned)
In total the sites have a combined area of 45.89 hectares, providing 0.584 hectares of open space per 1,000 people in the Borough (omitting sites under 0.2 hectares in size).
Most of the amenity open spaces contain basic playgrounds, a set of goal posts for informal sport or some planting on an area of flat, mown grass. In most cases there is potential to improve the ecological value and appearance of the sites by altering the management regime of the areas around the periphery of the pitches and to provide more visual interest with planting, sculpture and other features.
There are several good examples of amenity green spaces in the Borough. One example is Kismet Park, where the small local park is well overlooked by local residents and has an interesting landform that sweeps down to the drainage ditch. The site also has mature trees and hedges that create structure and visual interest and the pathway runs past the playground, which is in a good location. A similar example is Swans Green Recreation Ground, which is a small, pleasant area with a short cut running through it. The grass areas receive a mixed management regime and a mown grass pathway has been cut into the southern side of the long grass buffer zone.
ii) Quantity and accessibility provision
The current and recommended levels for quantity and accessibility are shown in the table on the following page. CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
3 policies and proposals 31
Current Recommended
Quantity 0.584 ha per 1000 people 0.584 ha per 1000 people
Accessibility Generally between a 5 to 15 480 metre straight-line distance minute walking distance or a 10 minute walk
Table 3.10 Current and recommended levels of quantity and accessibility for Amenity Green Spaces in the Borough. iii) Vision
Amenity areas are attractive, well-designed spaces which provide opportunities for a range of informal activities. They provide visual diversity with a range of different types of species and planting. Paths are surfaced to provide good routes through the space and connections to the wider pathway network. Sustainable management regimes aim to promote biodiversity. Cycle parking facilities, seating and bins are provided where necessary and appropriate.
Generally the urban areas where there is a deficiency in amenity green areas tend to have other open space types that compensate for this. For example, the residential area south of Benfleet is deficient in amenity green space but the nearby South Benfleet Playing Fields fulfil the role of functional and accessible green space, whereas Boyce Hill Golf course will also provide a visual amenity function for residents. Where amenity green space is lacking, enhancements to quality and accessibility should be made to alternative existing open spaces.
The Open Space Appraisal has identified that most of the amenity open spaces in the Borough are lacking in quality, access and features. There are some sites where minor changes to management and design could make a significant difference, encouraging use, raising the profile of the site, providing an identity for the site and increasing its level of community, ecological and educational value. For example, Labworth Park, owing to the fact that it is well overlooked and its position close to the esplanade, attracts a significant number of tourists and could be re-designed to increase use of the site both for tourists and local people.
In order to achieve the quantity level set out in the vision statement above for all amenity green sites, the following improvements should be made:
Provide attractive features such as planting or art works Manage vegetation to meet secure by design principles Improve routes through amenity areas to connect up entrances and provide better accessibility for all Provide seating and other street furniture where appropriate Consider changes to management and maintenance to improve biodiversity CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
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iv) Key Objectives
Consider the feasibility of increasing provision in Benfleet. Protect and enhance amenity green space sites that are of high value. Sites such as Kismet Park set the benchmark for this open space type. Prioritise improvements in quality and access so that amenity spaces meet the standard set in the vision for amenity green spaces
Key Actions (in order Outcomes Priority Timescale Performance of priority) No(s) Indicator
1. Work with partners Labworth 1, 2, 6 2012 More visitors use including Canvey Island Park is well the park (Place Town Council to used by both Survey/Residents continue to make locals and survey) improvements to tourists Labworth Park
2. Work with partners The 4, 6 ongoing Numbers of including Essex Wildlife ecological species and Trust, Essex County value of sites population sizes Council and Canvey is improved increased (Essex Island Town Council to Wildlife Trust improve biodiversity on Surveys) the western part of Canvey Island
3. Seek resources to These sites 2, 6 2012 Residents are enable the will serve the pleased with the enhancement of local sites (Place accessibility and quality community Survey/Residents of The Crescent better Survey, NI5 & Recreation Ground and NI138) Memorial Ground.
4. Carry out a feasibility The options 9 Long term Feasibility study study into the possibility for more open has been carried of increasing provision spaces in out of amenity green Benfleet will spaces in Benfleet be considered
Table 3.11 Key actions for Amenity Green Spaces in the Borough. CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
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3.1.7 Provision for young people and children i) Introduction
Provision for children and young people includes areas such as equipped play areas, ball courts, skateboard areas and teenage shelters. All these types of areas have a primary purpose of providing opportunities for play and social interaction involving children and young people. They are important because they support healthy physical, social and emotional development of children and young people. They also provide activities for this age group and in this way help to reduce the anti-social behaviour created through boredom.
The Borough has 23 play areas that cater for age groups ranging from toddlers to early teens:
The Crescent Play Area John H Burrows Play Area
Memorial Ground Play Area (medium) King George V Play Area (Canvey)
Memorial Play Area (small) S. Benfleet Playing Fields Play Area
Swans Green Play Area Tarpots Play Area
Woodside Park Play Area (East) Woodside Park Play Area (West)
King George V Play Area (Benfleet) Kismet Park Play Area
Thorney Bay Play Area Esplanade Paddling Pool
Leigh Beck Play Area (large) Leigh Beck Play Area (small)
The Paddocks Open Play Area The Paddocks Enclosed Play Area
Villa Road Play Area Larup Gardens
Waterside Farm Play Area Waterside Farm Skate Ramp
Thundersley Common Recreation Ground Play Area
In total the sites have a combined area of 3.22 hectares, providing 0.037 hectares of open space per 1,000 people in the Borough. However, many of the sites are large in area but contain only a few pieces of play equipment, therefore a standard based on area is misleading. Instead a measurement figure of sites per 1000 people is used. Current provision based on sites equates to 0.219 sites per 1000 people.
Site audits showed that many of the play areas had a very similar appearance in terms of content, design and boundary treatment. However, the Borough also has several pieces of more unique play equipment including two skate ramps (at Waterside CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
34 3 policies and proposals
Farm Recreation Ground and South Benfleet Playing Fields) and a paddling pool on the Thames Estuary. At the time of the audit (2006) it was found that most of the playgrounds were poor in terms of quality and opportunities for play.
The findings of the Open Space Appraisal were used in conjunction with other studies to produce the Castle Point Play Strategy, which is a separate document to the Open Spaces Strategy. As part of the Play Strategy, a Playground Renewal Programme was devised. This has the aim of updating all the playgrounds in the Borough. In the first phase of the programme three playgrounds were renewed: Jason Adams Memorial Playground (Benfleet); Leigh Beck Park (Canvey); and South Benfleet Playing Fields (Benfleet). The next phase of the programme has also been completed and Waterside Farm Recreation Ground (Canvey), King George V Recreation Ground (Canvey) and Woodside Park (Benfleet) have now also been regenerated. All playground designs have been subject to a public consultation exercise.
ii) Quantity and accessibility provision
The current and recommended levels for quantity and accessibility are shown in the table below.
Current Recommended
Quantity 0.219 sites per 1000 people 0.25 sites per 1000 people
Accessibility Generally > ten minute walk A 480 metre straight-line to nearest site distance or ten minute walk
Table 3.12 Current and recommended levels of quantity and accessibility for Play Areas in the Borough.
iii) Vision
The Borough provides good quality play areas that offer exciting and varied opportunities for play for children of a range of ages and abilities. Existing play areas have been rationalised to allow for maximum natural surveillance. Pathway networks to and from playgrounds have been provided to increase accessibility and connectivity within the setting of each play area. The provision of facilities for young people is integral in the design process for each site and reflects changing trends. Facilities for accompanying adults are considered in play area design and each area provides seating and bins.
In terms of quantity provision, East Canvey has a superior provision level to the rest of the Borough. The Hadleigh area is in line with the recommended level, whilst all other areas are below the provision level. Any increased provision within the Borough should be strategically situated to ensure that all residential areas of the Borough are within accessible catchment of a play area. CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
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Despite meeting or exceeding recommended quantity provision levels in some areas of the Borough, there are areas that do not meet the accessibility standard set above. For example, a large number of facilities in Canvey East are based along the south of the area, which results in large provision overlaps, leaving some areas underprovided and others with provision levels above the set quantity standard.
There are several areas that have been recommended as a focus for the provision of new sites. These are: Canvey West, where two new sites are required; Daws Heath, where one new site is needed in the medium to long-term; Benfleet, where two new sites are required in the short term to provide for the southern and central parts of the area, and further provision to be considered for the western edge of the residential area in the long-term; the eastern end of North Benfleet and the central part of Thundersley should also be considered.
It has been recognised that an increase in the quality of playgrounds in the Borough should be a major priority for the council. The current playground regeneration scheme is tackling the problems, such as neglect and vandalism, highlighted in the Open Space Appraisal. Within the Playground Strategy the replacement priority of each playground was established and a programme for renewal was established. Several of the recreation grounds and parks contained two or three different play areas, therefore in the production of the strategy the playgrounds in the Borough were rationalised. The 5 year renewal programme for playgrounds will result in 18 high quality play areas.
The playgrounds that had the highest priority for renewal (priority rating “1”) have been regenerated, or will shortly be completed. Before regenerating the remaining playgrounds it is recommended that the Council carry out a review of all the work carried out so far in order to identify any issues that need to be addressed and to apply examples of best practise to the next stages of the programme. Once the review is completed, the playgrounds have been prioritised for renewal as follows:
Play Area Location Replacement Timescale Priority
(1-3 where 1 is the highest and 3 is the lowest)
Kismet Park, Canvey Island 2 2009/2010
Villa Road Recreation Ground, 2 2008/2009 Benfleet
Tarpots Recreation Ground, Benfleet 2 2009/2010 CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
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Play Area Location Replacement Timescale Priority
(1-3 where 1 is the highest and 3 is the lowest)
Woodside Avenue Play Area, 2 2008/2009 Thundersley
The Crescent Recreation Ground, 2 2010/2011 Hadleigh
The Memorial Recreation Ground, 2 2008/2009 Hadleigh
The Paddocks Enclosed Paddling 3 2010/2011 Pool, Canvey Island
Larup AvenuePlayground, Canvey 3 2011/2012 Island
Thorney Bay Open Space, Canvey 3 2011/2012 Island
JH Burrows Recreation Ground, 3 2011/2012 Hadleigh
Thundersley Common Recreation N/A New equipment Ground, Thundersley installed in 2003
Swans Green Recreation Ground, N/A New equipment Thundersley installed in 2003
Table 3.13 Playground renewal programme priorities and time frame.
The Open Space Appraisal suggests that in order to attain the quality standards set out in the vision statement above for all play grounds, several goals should be met. These are outlined below:
Provide better variety in design and equipment so that there is more choice for parents and children when visiting playgrounds CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
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Every attempt should be made where possible to reinforce character and provide well designed, individual play areas Provide facilities for adults and supervisors and consider the positioning of such facilities so that they can best watch over all the children under their care Rationalise play areas that are divided into two sub-areas within one site Greatly improve pathway quality and connectivity to, from and within play areas Provide more good quality facilities for young people and discuss in partnership with local communities where and what such facilities should be
Key Objectives
Ensure that, once improved, all playgrounds meet the quality standards set above Consider opportunities for more provision in areas of deficiency and pay attention to providing more meaningful facilities for young people that are developed through consultation with potential site users Protect the existing sites and seek new provision as appropriate through new residential developments Investigate opportunities for new play provision in suitable amenity green space sites Improve provision for youth activities and facilities along the Thames Estuary seafront Improve accessibility to and within play areas and provide accessible play equipment Quality and accessibility should be enhanced to ensure that these sites deliver maximum value to the community and that good levels of usage are maintained
Key Actions Outcomes Priority Timescale Performance No(s) Indicator 1. Continue with All playgrounds meet 7 2012 Assess the number of playground required quality playgrounds that have renewal scheme standards and been and devise a equipment is renewed maintenance maintained/replaced programme for when necessary in all playgrounds order to maintain this standard 2. Seek Recommended 9 Ongoing Increase in numbers of resources for quantity and amenity green spaces new provision in accessibility amenity green standards are met spaces and in for all areas in the new residential Borough areas 3. Continue to Playgrounds deliver 5, 7 Ongoing Surveys - residents consult maximum value to surveyed feel CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
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Key Actions Outcomes Priority Timescale Performance No(s) Indicator residents of the community and playgrounds meet their Castle Point are well used needs (Place regarding Survey/Residents design of Survey) playgrounds and the location of new provision. 4. Carry out a All examples of best 1, 2, 5, 2008 Review carried out review of the practise can be 6, 7 playgrounds taken forward and renewed as a used in the next result of the first stages of the stage of the programme. renewal programme
Table 3.14 Key actions for Play Areas in the Borough.
3.1.8 Allotments and community gardens
i) Introduction
Allotments and community gardens are shared spaces that are used by groups of people and local communities. The primary purpose of allotments is to provide opportunities for people to grow their own produce and plants, which contributes to the long-term promotion of sustainability, health and social inclusion.
They also provide a number of wider benefits to the community:
Bringing together different cultural backgrounds Improving physical and mental health Providing a source of recreation Wider contribution to green and open space
The Borough has 7 main allotments:
Daws Heath Allotment London RoadAllotment Jotmans Farm Allotment Waterside Farm Allotment Smallgains Allotment Watlington RoadAllotment Church Road Allotment CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
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In total the sites have a combined area of 5.06 hectares, which gives an average allotment size of 0.84 hectares. Currently the level of provision in Castle Point is 0.058 hectares per 1000 people.
Most of the allotments in Castle Point are run by allotment societies. The two allotments on Canvey Island (Waterside Farm and Smallgains) are the responsibility of Canvey Island Town Council. The three Council-run allotments are Church Road, Jotmans Farm and London Road. Those allotments run by the horticultural societies tend to be better provided for in terms of facilities than the Council-run sites, for example at Daws Heath Allotment (run by Hadleigh Allotment Society) there is a shop, a hut for lectures and workshops, and raised beds for disabled use.
Of the council run allotments, the most popular one, Church Road, only contains 8 full plots and was not included in the Open Space Appraisal owing to its small scale. The second most popular allotment is London Road, which is the allotment located closest to a town centre. At present all the allotments in the Borough are over-subscribed and there are currently no vacant plots in Castle Point. There are long waiting lists for the different allotments, with waiting times upwards of one year and in some cases there is a waiting time of two to three years. ii) Quantity and accessibility provision
The current and recommended levels for quantity and accessibility are shown in the table below.
Current Recommended
Quantity 0.058 ha per 1000 0.058 ha per 1000 people people
Accessibility <15 minute drive 2400 metre straight-line distance or a ten minute drive to the nearest site
Table 3.15 Current and recommended levels of quality and accessibility for Allotments and Community Gardens in the Borough. CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
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iii) Vision
Allotments and community gardens provide the opportunity for residents to grow their own produce and encourage partnerships with local schools and clubs and community schemes. They are located within residential areas therefore reducing the need to use cars. They provide a notice board, parking and water points and are well-signed where appropriate.
Applying the recommended quantity level shows that there is a wide variation in provision. Provision levels on Canvey Island are the lowest in the Borough. In total, 0.97 hectares or 39 new allotment plots would be would be needed to meet the minimum level of provision. However, any new provision should be demand-led and should only be justified if the demand can be proved. As the lengths of the waiting lists shows, there is clearly demand for more plots. This demand may be partially met by maximising the use within allotments, particularly by encouraging the transfer of tenancy where plots are seen to be neglected. In order to assess the level of demand for plots the council should consider carrying out an investigation into the need for additional allotments in Castle Point.
Most areas in the Borough have access to an allotment site. The only two areas that do not have the recommended access levels are both less densely inhabited. These areas are the north end of Thundersley and the area on the west of Canvey Island. Canvey Island Town Council has informally expressed an interest in enlarging the Waterside Farm Allotments by extending them on land to the east that is owned by the Borough Council.
The Borough’s allotments are of reasonably good quality; however, they are a facility with a very specific target audience, which could be expanded. Where the Borough is reasonably strong in terms of quality of provision, more work could be done to develop local partnerships and breadth of provision.
In order to achieve the vision set out above, the following recommendations should be applied to all allotments:
Improve accessibility for all people with disabilities Improve entrances and provide parking where necessary Provide other ancillary facilities where necessary and consult allotment users to determine what is needed at which site Work to bring council run allotments up to standard in terms of quality, accessibility and facilities present on site Encourage the involvement of new sectors of the community (children, youth groups, the unemployed etc.) CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
3 policies and proposals 41 iv) Key Objectives
Prioritise council run allotments for enhancement of quality and access to ensure user satisfaction and sustain high usage by the local community Work to improve levels of accessibility on all levels from physical accessibility to encouraging a wider target and user group
Key Actions (in Outcomes Priority Timescale Performance order of priority) No(s) Indicator
1. Consult with the Allotment user 5, 8 2011 Consultation has users of council-run satisfaction is been carried out allotments ensured and regarding what is usage by the needed at each site local community is sustained
2. Seek resources All council run 6 Ongoing Assess changes to implement allotments meet (Place enhancements of the set quality Survey/Residents council run sites standards Survey)
3. Work with The Borough will 2, 5 2011 Allotment Society Hadleigh Allotment have an Allotment has been set up Society and users Association that of council run can promote allotments to create interaction with a Borough-wide the local Allotment community Association
4. Carry out an It will be clear 9 2011 Waiting lists for investigation into whether allotment allotment plots are the need for provision in the reduced additional allotment Borough is provision in the sufficient to meet Borough the needs of residents
5. Consider the The quantity of 9 ongoing Proposal proposal to enlarge allotment considered Waterside provision on Allotment in Canvey Island will consultation with be identified Canvey Island Town Council
Table 3.16 Key actions for Allotments and Community Gardens in the Borough. CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
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3.1.9 Churchyards and cemeteries
i) Introduction
The primary purpose for churchyards and cemeteries is for burial of the dead and quiet contemplation. However, they can also play an important role in the promotion of wildlife conservation and biodiversity and they enable communities to come into contact with more natural habitats.
Cemeteries and churchyards can offer the following wider benefits to the local area:
Ecological Landscape value and green connections ‘Sense of place’ Cultural and heritage value Economic
The Borough has 7 churchyards and cemeteries:
South Benfleet Cemetery Woodside Cemetery St Mary’s Churchyard St Peter’s Churchyard St James-the-less Churchyard Willow Cemetery St Katherine’s Churchyard
The churchyards and cemeteries in the Borough range in appearance and size from the more typical village churchyard with graves as found at St Mary’s Church, to larger, newer sites such as that created at Willow Cemetery.
St Mary’s Churchyard and St Peter’s Cemetery have higher ecological value than the other cemeteries in the Borough owing to their more relaxed management regime, presence of native, mature trees and thick hedges, and denser shrub areas. Due to the fact that Willow Cemetery is relatively new it has an overall low ecological value, although its buffer zones and boundaries appear more naturalised. It is located on the outskirts of Canvey Island and abuts the proposed Canvey Wick country park (recently designated as a SSSI) so it is likely that neighbouring species will colonise the cemetery. The land directly to the west of the cemetery is owned by the Borough Council and it is proposed that this will eventually become part of Canvey Wick SSSI.
St James-the-less churchyard is located in the centre of Hadleigh and has the potential to be a key local space. At present the site is used as a meeting place and as a space to stop and rest. However, the consultants report that people do not frequent the green open space as much as they could do owing to the lack of routes across the space. CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
3 policies and proposals 43 ii) Quantity and accessibility provision
As stated in the Open Spaces Appraisal and in PPG17, it is not appropriate to set a quantity or accessibility level for cemeteries and churchyards because this differs for every different area in the country. However, in general every individual cemetery/burial ground has a finite capacity and therefore there is a steady need for more of them.
In terms of access issues, site visits to the cemeteries and churchyards in the Borough revealed a recurring problem with internal site access. Most sites had poor footpath networks with uneven and deteriorating surfaces. It is therefore unlikely that the majority of these sites are compliant with the Disability Discrimination Act. iii) Vision
Cemeteries and churchyards are well integrated into communities as established open spaces for contemplation. Sites are accessible, clean and are managed to promote a diverse ecology. Opportunities for sustainable maintenance practises have been maximised while protecting valuable and ancient features and landscapes.
The Borough’s churches and cemeteries are of average to good quality but do not reach the quality levels set in the vision above. The consultants note that even the most recent addition to this open space type (Willow Cemetery) does not meet quality levels. Any new facilities and all existing grounds should be improved in the following ways:
Provide more places for contemplation Improve access to graves for people with disabilities Design new cemeteries with a focus on providing a sense of place Ensure new cemeteries are within walking distance from communities Promote ecological relationships within sites by altering management regimes and creating more wildlife habitats within churchyards and cemeteries iv) Key Objectives
Adopt the quality standard for all sites in the Borough Formulate an action plan to increase accessibility at sites throughout the Borough, to maximise their potential as local amenities Promote the ecological value of cemeteries and churchyards through protection and habitat creation Improve public transport links to existing cemeteries CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
44 3 policies and proposals
Key Actions (in order Outcomes Priority Timescale Performance of priority) No(s) Indicator
1. Work with Essex Levels of 4 Long term Numbers of Wildlife Trust and other biodiversity at species and partners to change all sites are 2013+ population sizes maintenance and increased increased (Essex management Wildlife Trust techniques to improve surveys) levels of biodiversity at all sites
2. Create better links Increased 2, 3 Long term Numbers of between St Mary’s use as a local people using site Churchyard, South community 2013+ are increased Benfleet Playing Fields amenity (Place and Benfleet town Survey/Residents centre Survey)
3. Work with the Land Increased 2, 3 Long term Numbers of Restoration Partnership use as a local people using site to create eventual links community 2013+ are increased between Willow amenity (Place Cemetery and Canvey Survey/Residents Wick SSSI Survey)
4. Create links Sustainable 2, 3 2013 Links created between St Peter’s transport churchyard, Coombe links are Wood and the nearby increased residential area
5. Link pathways Sustainable 2, 3 2013 Links created between Woodside transport Cemetery, the links are surrounding open space increased and residential area in consultation with the Friends of Woodside Cemetery
6. Work with the Land The level of 4, 6 ongoing The Canvey Wick Restoration Partnership biodiversity of SSSI has been to incorporate the land the land is improved and to the west of Willow increased incorporates the Cemetery into Canvey and protected land to the west of Wick SSSI. Willow Cemetery
Table 3.17 Key actions for Churchyards and Cemeteries in the Borough. CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
3 policies and proposals 45
3.1.10 Thames Estuary and waterfront i) Introduction
The Thames Estuary category includes all coastal areas of the Borough including beach areas and seafronts. Primary uses of the Thames Estuary are leisure (particularly during the summer months) and as a wildlife habitat with a particular emphasis on providing feeding opportunities for migrating birds. The Thames Estuary is a real asset to the Borough in a number of ways:
It provides recreational opportunities It provides open views It is a tourist attraction It provides a strong sense of place It provides a habitat for a variety of wildlife
The boundary of the Thames Estuary spans the South and East sides of Canvey Island and provides a linear walk that extends around the island. This stretch of coastline has formalised access and ancillary facilities such as benches and bins. Parts of the waterfront have small beaches along them where facilities such as the paddling pool have been provided. The small cove at Thorney Bay is used by holiday-makers and locals for playing, sunbathing and picnics.
On the south of Canvey Island the sea defences have a significant impact on the appearance of the site. There is a high, concrete sea defence which, coupled with the tar-coated stone lower level sea defence that slopes down to the water, makes the waterfront look predominantly hard. In the site audit carried out for the Open Space Appraisal mis-use of the waterfront was evident from the extent of dog-fouling, litter, graffiti and vandalism seen in the quieter areas. Wooden benches in concrete shelters had been broken and the shelters graffitied. This could be owing to the poor natural surveillance of the site, particularly at night, as the sea defences prevent visibility from the street. In daylight hours the site is constantly in use by the public and there are lifeguards present in the summer, which helps to deter mis-use. ii) Quantity and accessibility provision
This type of open space does not have applicable quantity or accessibility levels owing to the fact that the nature of the site is determined by the geology and geomorphology of the area. In terms of accessibility on the site, the site audit found that access to the site is poor and path surfaces are inadequate and too narrow, making it difficult to get to the site with pushchairs, wheelchairs and bicycles. Within the site itself, pathways are good with a wide, concrete promenade. CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
46 3 policies and proposals
ii) Vision
The Borough promotes the unique character of the Thames Estuary for wildlife value and for leisure. The waterfront provides an accessible ‘landmark’ frontage with good quality seating, accessible pathways, hygienic, clean and accessible toilet facilities and a clean and well-maintained promenade that is attractive to visitors.
In general the site is of average to good quality, although there are pockets of land that are better than others. The better quality areas tend to be located in the better-used areas such as the stretch between the paddling pool and Thorney Bay. The current major quality issues associated with the Thames Estuary concern litter problems, dog fouling, vandalism and graffiti, and poor quality toilet provision.
The area is a strong asset but over the years it has been allowed to decay. Currently a regeneration programme has made improvements to the seafront and more are planned. The current regeneration programme will raise the quality of the waterfront area on Canvey Island and should take into consideration the following long-term aspirations:
Re-design and update the promenade to make it more attractive to visitors and residents Increase planting along the estuary to improve the site for wildlife and aesthetic value Improve day-to-day maintenance such as litter-picking and campaign to reduce the presence of dog foul along the frontage Improve and/or renovate toilet facilities Make pathways leading to the estuary accessible and improve surfaces Replace street furniture
iii) Key Objectives
Raise the quality of the Thames Estuary to meet the quality standard set in order that the site should become more attractive to and better valued by residents and visitors alike Work to promote biodiversity through habitat creation, control of waste and improving the cleanliness of the site Improve accessibility to the site in terms of physical accessibility, public transport links and awareness
Key Actions (in order Outcomes Priority Timescale Performance of priority) No(s) Indicator
1. Continue with the The seafront 6 2009 Project seafront regeneration in the Borough completed. Place project and devise a will meet the survey/Residents maintenance quality survey to assess programme that will standard set CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
3 policies and proposals 47
Key Actions (in order Outcomes Priority Timescale Performance of priority) No(s) Indicator
commence once the ongoing project is completed maintenance
2. Work with Natural Biodiversity at 4 2012 Numbers of England, Essex the site will be species and County Council, increased population sizes Canvey Island Town increased (Natural Council and other England and partners in order to Essex Wildlife promote biodiversity of Trust Survey) the site
3. Promote the site Usage of the 2, 3 2010 Number of “hits” and transport links on site will be on website is the Council’s website increased by increased visitors and residents
Table 3.18 Key actions for the Thames Estuary and Waterfront area within the Borough. CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
48 4 delivery of the strategy
4 Delivery of the strategy
4.1 The Action Plan
The Action Plan is the key delivery mechanism for this strategy. It aims to document all the work happening across the council in open spaces across all departments. It will be updated annually to take account of work completed and new works coming on-stream.
Projects identified in the Action Plan will contribute to addressing the priorities set out in the previous section. Each project has a timescale, and a performance indicator.
Delivery will be through existing channels such as: the Council’s Street Scene team, Essex County Council, the Castle Point Regeneration Partnership, Thames Gateway South Essex, Canvey Island Town Council, the Council’s partnership with Groundwork Trust, and planning briefs.
Council officers will also continue to keep a close working relationship with other organisations that own, manage and maintain open space in Castle Point, such as the RSPB and Essex Wildlife Trust, to champion the public’s priorities for open space improvements where these fall outside the control of Castle Point Borough Council.
There are areas of work and issues raised in the Strategy where further work or research is required before a project can be taken forward to the Action Plan. The table ‘Further Work/Research’ which follows the Action Plan lists the pieces of work currently identified which need to be progressed to address the issues raised in the Strategy. Most of this work will require revenue funding. This table will be updated annually in line with the Action Plan annual review. Open Sustainable Action Timescale Section/Group Funding Performance Space Community Responsible Secured?/Resources Indicators Strategy Strategy Priority Ambition(s) Number(s) that can be covered
1. Country Parks
Continue working with the Land Long term CPBC/RSPB Secured: Land Site is created Restoration Partnership towards the 2013+ Restoration Trust 1, 2, 4, 5, CASTLE 2, 4 creation of a new country park site at 6, 9 Canvey Wick, to include the site west of Willow Cemetery 4 Continue development of the site-wide Thames Gateway Not secured: Work is completed POINT
master plan with Halcrow at Canvey South Essex Possibility of £4.15 delivery Heights and seek resources to million from Green implement the business plan CPBC Grid Programme OPEN 1, 2, 4, 5, Long term 2, 4 plus other areas 6, 7, 9 2013+ Look into the possibility of working SP with local boatyard(s) and other businesses to make improvements to ACES the Canvey Heights site of STRA
Make improvements to all Country Parks: Improve access and entrances the
2 2, 4, 7 Develop more well connected routes 2011/12 CPBC/Essex County Not secured Site reaches TEGY
for pathways within each country park Council standard set in strategy site Open Spaces
Strategy 2008
2 2, 4, 7 Create alternative entrances next to 2010 CPBC/Essex County Not secured Site reaches -
stiles in order to be DDA compliant at Council standard set in 2013 Hadleigh Castle Country Park 49 50 CASTLE 4 Open Sustainable Action Timescale Section/Group Funding Performance Space Community Responsible Secured?/Resources Indicators delivery Strategy Strategy
Priority Ambition(s) POINT Number(s) that can be OPEN
covered of
Open Spaces SP the
Strategy ACES
2 2, 4, 7 Creating a wheelchair/pushchair 2009 CPBC/Essex County Secured in part: Site reaches strategy
accessible route at Canvey Heights Council £12,000 grant from standard set in STRA ECC for footpaths Open Spaces (to be used on Strategy TEGY DDA compliant path at Canvey
Heights) 2008
3 2, 4, 7 Install/improve signs and 2013+ CPBC/Essex County Mainly not Sites reach -
install/improve toilet facilities Council secured for standards set in 2013 projects: Open Spaces Strategy Signs costed at £400-£500
Toilet blocks costed at £100,000 for purchase & installation
Make improvements to all Country Parks: Improve car parks Open Sustainable Action Timescale Section/Group Funding Performance Space Community Responsible Secured?/Resources Indicators Strategy Strategy Priority Ambition(s) Number(s) that can be covered
2 2, 4, 7 Provide better signs for car parking at Long term CPBC/Essex County Not secured: Site reaches the Hadleigh Castle site 2013+ Council standard set in Signs costed at Open Spaces
£400-£500 each Strategy CASTLE
2 2, 4, 7 Consolidate parking, resurface and Long term CPBC/Essex County Not Site reaches 4 tidy up the Southern Car Park at 2013+ Council secured:Re-surfacing standard set in POINT Canvey Heights a car park costed Open Spaces at £20,000 Strategy delivery
Make improvements to all Country Parks: Improve quality OPEN
6 2 Replace/restore benches where 2011/12 CPBC/Essex County Not secured: Sites reach necessary at all country park sites Council standards set in SP
Benches costed at Open Spaces ACES
£1200 each Strategy of STRA the 6 2 Carry out study to determine which 2009 CPBC/Essex County Current staff Green Flag award
site is most suitable to be brought up Council provision will work achieved TEGY
to standard for the Green Flag Award on Green Flag strategy determination and
applications 2008 - 2013 51 52 CASTLE 4 Open Sustainable Action Timescale Section/Group Funding Performance Space Community Responsible Secured?/Resources Indicators delivery Strategy Strategy
Priority Ambition(s) POINT Number(s) that can be OPEN
covered of
1,6 2 Apply for Green Flag status for 2012 CPBC/Essex County Current staff Green Flag award SP the
identified park Council provision will work achieved ACES on Green Flag determination and strategy applications STRA
Make improvements to all Country Parks: Improve identity and links TEGY 5 Improve community links to improve Ongoing CPBC/Essex County Carried out using Links created awareness and consider involving Council existing staff 2,4 2008 local groups eg. Smallgains Allotment provision Society near Canvey Heights. - 5 Carry out feasibility study into the 2011/2012 CPBC/Essex County Carried out using Study completed 2013 2,4 provision of visitor centres/more Council existing staff interpretation for each site provision
5,6 Continue to develop links with the Ongoing CPBC/Essex County Carried out using Links created 2,4 Salvation Army at the Hadleigh Castle Council existing staff site. provision
5,6 Maintain links with local boroughs to Ongoing CPBC/Essex County Carried out using Links created 2,4 ensure financial security for the Council existing staff Hadleigh Castle Country Park site provision
Make improvements to all Country Parks: Improve biodiversity Open Sustainable Action Timescale Section/Group Funding Performance Space Community Responsible Secured?/Resources Indicators Strategy Strategy Priority Ambition(s) Number(s) that can be covered
4 2 Write new/review management plans 2011 CPBC / ECC / EWT Not secured Increased for country parks to improve ecological / Natural England population value and to include traditional numbers and
management techniques such as numbers of species CASTLE coppicing and pollarding, particularly for control of hawthorn at Hadleigh Castle Country Park 4 POINT
2. Urban parks and gardens delivery
2 Improve entrance to Dutch Cottage in Long term 2013+ CPBC/Benfleet & Not secured Increased visitor OPEN 2,4 terms of signage, approach sequence District Historical numbers and visibility Society/ECC SP
5 Provide further explanation & Long term 2013+ CPBC/Benfleet & Not secured Increased visitor ACES
2,4 interpretation signs (eg. External District Historical numbers of information board) at Dutch Cottage Society/ECC STRA the 6 Seek resources to implement changes Long term 2013+ Pinnacle/CPBC Not secured Increased visitor
2,4 for the enhancement of St James numbers TEGY
Churchyard and Labworth Park strategy
6 Carry out a feasibility study for Long term 2013+ Pinnacle/CPBC Not secured Increased visitor 2008 2,4 upgrading Woodside Open Space numbers - 2013 3. Natural and semi-natural areas 53 54 CASTLE 4 Open Sustainable Action Timescale Section/Group Funding Performance Space Community Responsible Secured?/Resources Indicators delivery Strategy Strategy
Priority Ambition(s) POINT Number(s) that can be OPEN
covered of
Make all natural and semi-natural areas more accessible by considering the following: SP the ACES 2 4,7 Improve pathways by widening and 2012 CPBC / EWT / ECC Secured (in part): SSSI at levelling at Arthur Stevens Open / SEBC / Natural a) Funding secured Thundersley Great strategy
Space, The Glen, Shipwright’s Woods, England for Thundersley Common in STRA Tewkes Creek, Starvelarks Wood, Great Common as recovering / Dodds Grove, North Benfleet Hall part of National improving state TEGY Wood, West Wood & Little Common Stewardship Scheme 75% of residents
b) Funding for surveyed are 2008 2,3 4,7 Improve signage at Arthur Stevens 2012 West Wood from satisfied with these Open Space, North Benfleet Hall Hadleigh and Daws sites -
Wood, Coombe Wood, Heath 2013 Tile Wood, West Wood, Fane Wood Neighbourhood & Great Wood Nature Reserve Forum Areas not 2 4,7 Redefine/add entrances to Arthur 2012 secured: Funding Stevens Open Space, The Glen, needed for all other Thundersley Great Common, sites, potentially Tile Wood, Wyburn Wood, from Great Wood Nature Reserve, West Neighbourhood Wood & Fane Wood Forums Open Sustainable Action Timescale Section/Group Funding Performance Space Community Responsible Secured?/Resources Indicators Strategy Strategy Priority Ambition(s) Number(s) that can be covered
3 4,7 Connect sites to the local footpath Long term 2013+ network at St Michael’s Church, Thundersley Great Common, Little
Common, Pound Wood, Fane Wood CASTLE & West Wood
6 4,7 Improve boundaries at Great Wood Long term 2013+ 4 Golf Course, Great Wood Nature POINT Reserve & Dodds Grove delivery 6 4,7 Provide (more) seating at The Glen, Long term 2013+ Starvelarks Wood, Wyburn Wood, OPEN Pound Wood & West Wood
Make all natural and semi-natural areas more educational and ecologically more valuable by considering the following: SP ACES
5 1,2 Improve signage for Long term 2013+ CPBC / EWT / ECC Secured (in part): SSSI at of education/interpretation purposes at / SEBC / Natural Thundersley Great STRA
Wyburn Wood, Great Wood Nature England/CPWG a) Funding secured Common in the Reserve, Tile Wood & Great Wood for Thundersley recovering /
Golf Course Great Common as improving state TEGY
part of National strategy 5 1,2 Improve educational value by Long term 2013+ Stewardship 75% of residents
introducing interpretation methods at Scheme surveyed are 2008 Tewkes Creek, Thundersley Great satisfied with these Common, Shipwright’s Wood & West sites - Wood 2013 55 56 CASTLE 4 Open Sustainable Action Timescale Section/Group Funding Performance Space Community Responsible Secured?/Resources Indicators delivery Strategy Strategy
Priority Ambition(s) POINT Number(s) that can be OPEN
covered of
4 1,2 Apply conservation designations to 2012 b) Funding for SP the
The Glen & Shipwright’s Wood West Wood from ACES Hadleigh and Daws 4 1,2 Encourage the regeneration of oak Ongoing Heath strategy woodland at Little Common and Neighbourhood STRA Shipwright’s Wood Forum
6 1,2 As a priority change the management Ongoing TEGY regime to improve biodiversity and Areas not habitat identity at Arthur Stevens Open secured: Funding 2008 Space, St Michael’s Church, Coombe needed for all other Wood & Fane Wood sites, potentially
from - 5 1,2 Clean up site at Thundersley Great 2010 Neighbourhood 2013 Common to bring the SSSI up to PSA Forums standards
4,6 1,2 Provide a “destination” at the Northern 2012 end of Little Common
8 1,2 Work with local “friends” groups to Ongoing create/maintain physical management techniques at Coombe Wood and West Wood
4. Green Corridors
Make improvements to the Inland Esplanade: Open Sustainable Action Timescale Section/Group Funding Performance Space Community Responsible Secured?/Resources Indicators Strategy Strategy Priority Ambition(s) Number(s) that can be covered
2,3 2,4,7 Redesign and resurface the pathway 2012 CPBC/Land Not secured: Number of people network to improve connectivity and Restoration Trust Potential funding visiting the site is accessibility at the site and to other through the increased
existing networks within the county Thames Gateway CASTLE Parklands Project 4 2,4,7 Alter the management regime of the 2012 CPBC/Land mown areas to encourage wildlife Restoration Trust 4 1,5,6 2,4,7 Improve toilets and snack shop - 2012 CPBC/Land POINT
considering their landscape settings Restoration Trust delivery
Make improvements to The Lake and Southwick Dyke. At The Lake: OPEN
2 2,4,7 Improve access by updating the 2012 CPBC/Land Not secured: Site audits show
bridges, and improving the link Restoration Trust Potential funding the sites meet SP
between The Lake and Tewkes Creek, through the quality standards ACES
as well as to other existing networks Thames Gateway set in the Open of within the county Parklands Project Spaces Strategy STRA 2 2,4,7 Improve the security at the west end 2012 CPBC/Land the of the park Restoration Trust TEGY
5 2,4,7 Promote community initiatives to 2012 CPBC/Land strategy improve education Restoration Trust 2008 Make improvements to The Lake and Southwick Dyke. At Southwick Dyke: - 2013 57 58 CASTLE 4 Open Sustainable Action Timescale Section/Group Funding Performance Space Community Responsible Secured?/Resources Indicators delivery Strategy Strategy
Priority Ambition(s) POINT Number(s) that can be OPEN
covered of
2,3 2,4,7 Improve the profile of the entrances 2012 CPBC/Land Not secured: Site audits show SP the
Restoration Trust Potential funding the sites meet ACES through the quality standards 4 2,4,7 Provide a more varied landscape and 2012 CPBC/Land Thames Gateway set in the Open strategy improve the ecological value of the Restoration Trust Parklands Project Spaces Strategy STRA site by altering the management and mowing regime TEGY 6 2,4,7 Clean the walkways 2012 CPBC/Land Restoration Trust 2008 5. Outdoor sports facilities -
Improve access to and usage of facilities in the Borough: 2013
9 2,4,5 Consider the feasibility of opening up Long term 2013+ CPBC (Asset Not secured Site audits show school facilities to the public at the Management the sites meet following ECC-run schools: Group)/ECC quality standards Furtherwick Park, Canvey Infant & set in the Open Junior Schools, William Read Primary Spaces Strategy School, St Katherine’s Primary School, Montgomerie Junior & Infant School, Kents Hill Infant & Junior Schools, Appleton School & Kingston Primary School Open Sustainable Action Timescale Section/Group Funding Performance Space Community Responsible Secured?/Resources Indicators Strategy Strategy Priority Ambition(s) Number(s) that can be covered
9 2,4,5 Consider the feasibility of opening up Long term 2013+ CPBC/Robert Drake Not secured Site audits show school facilities to the public at the School the sites meet Robert Drake grant-maintained school quality standards
set in the Open CASTLE Spaces Strategy
2,8 2,4,5 Improve access to facilities currently Long term 2013+ CPBC/relevant Not secured Site audits show 4 on offer to the public at Castle View schools and ECC the sites meet POINT School, The Deanes School, King quality standards John Senior School & Hadleigh Junior set in the Open delivery
School Spaces Strategy OPEN
3 2,4,5 Improve awareness of sites through Long term 2013+ Not secured Site audits show signage at Boyce Hill Golf Course, CPBC (Asset the sites meet SP Hadleigh Tennis Club & Waterside Management quality standards Farm Recreation Ground Group)/ECC set in the Open ACES Spaces Strategy of STRA
2 2,4,5 Improve disabled access/facilities at 2012 CPBC (Asset Not secured Site audits show the Hadleigh Tennis Club & Waterside Management Group) the sites meet
Farm Recreation Ground quality standards TEGY
set in the Open strategy Spaces Strategy 2008 2 2,4,5 Improve car parking facilities at King Long term 2013+ CPBC (Asset Not secured: Total Site audits show
George V Playing Fields, Woodside Management Group) resurfacing of one the sites meet - Park Playing Fields, John H Burrows quality standards 2013 59 60 CASTLE 4 Open Sustainable Action Timescale Section/Group Funding Performance Space Community Responsible Secured?/Resources Indicators delivery Strategy Strategy
Priority Ambition(s) POINT Number(s) that can be OPEN
covered of
Recreation Ground, Tewkes Creek car park costed at set in the Open SP the
Recreation Ground & Concord Rovers ~£20,000 Spaces Strategy ACES Pitch strategy
2,3 2,4,5 Create new pathways and/or links to Long term 2013+ CPBC (Asset Not secured Site audits show STRA pathway networks outside the site at Management Group) the sites meet Waterside Farm Recreation Ground, quality standards TEGY Thundersley Common Recreation set in the Open Ground, South Benfleet Playing Spaces Strategy
Fields, John H Burrows Recreation 2008 Ground, & Concord Rovers Pitch -
2 2,4,5 Replace gateways at Thundersley Long term 2013+ CPBC (Asset Not secured Site audits show 2013 Common Recreation Ground Management Group) the sites meet quality standards set in the Open Spaces Strategy
Improve quality of sites:
7,8 2,4,5 Improve pitch quality at Thundersley Long term 2013+ CPBC (Asset Not secured 75% of residents Common Recreation Ground, Management Group) surveyed are Woodside Park Playing Fields, pleased with the Northwick Road Playing Fields, Haven quality of sites Road Football Pitch, Tewkes Creek Recreation Ground, King George V Open Sustainable Action Timescale Section/Group Funding Performance Space Community Responsible Secured?/Resources Indicators Strategy Strategy Priority Ambition(s) Number(s) that can be covered
Playing Fields, John H Burrows Recreation Ground & South Benfleet Playing Fields CASTLE 6,8 2,4,5 Improve ancillary facilities at South Ongoing CPBC (Asset Not secured 75% of residents Benfleet Playing Fields, Haven Road Management Group) surveyed are Football Pitch & Thundersley pleased with the 4 Common Recreation Ground & King quality of sites POINT George V Playing Fields delivery 1,6 2,4,5 Renovating buildings at Tewkes Creek Long term 2013+ CPBC (Asset Not secured 75% of residents Recreation Ground & John H Burrows Management Group) surveyed are OPEN Recreation Ground pleased with the quality of sites SP
4 2,4,5 Improving ecological value of sites Long term 2013+ CPBC/EWT/Natural Not secured 75% of residents ACES
through creating/changing England surveyed are of management plans at Concord Rovers pleased with the STRA
Pitch, Smallgains Recreation Ground, quality of sites the Thundersley Common Recreation
Ground, Woodside Park Playing Fields TEGY
& John H Burrows Recreation Ground strategy
2 2,4,5 Improving the surveillance of sites and Long term 2013+ CPBC (Asset Not secured 75% of residents 2008 creating stronger boundaries at Management Group) surveyed are
Smallgains Recreation Ground & pleased with the - South Benfleet Playing Fields quality of sites 2013 61 62 CASTLE 4 Open Sustainable Action Timescale Section/Group Funding Performance Space Community Responsible Secured?/Resources Indicators delivery Strategy Strategy
Priority Ambition(s) POINT Number(s) that can be OPEN
covered of
6,7 2,4,5 Renovate the basket ball area at John Long term 2013+ CPBC (Asset Not secured 75% of residents SP the
H Burrows Recreation Ground Management Group) surveyed are ACES pleased with the quality of sites strategy STRA 8,9 2,4,5 Consider provision of facilities for older Long term 2013+ CPBC (Asset Not secured 75% of residents users (eg. bowling green) at Waterside Management Group) surveyed are TEGY Farm Recreation Ground pleased with the quality of sites 2008 6. Amenity Green Spaces
Improve accessibility, quality and management regimes of amenity green spaces in the Borough: - 2013 8 2,4 Improve and redefine entrances and Long term 2013+ CPBC (Asset Not secured 75% of residents path networks at King George V Management Group) surveyed are Playing Fields, Memorial Ground, pleased with the Runnymede Paddocks, Swans Green quality of sites Recreation Ground, Tarpots Recreation Ground, Labworth Park, Leigh Beck Recreation Ground, The Paddocks, Dyke Crescent & Villa Road Recreation Ground
2,8 2,4 Consider developing sites for use by Long term 2013+ Not secured 75% of residents particular groups – children/teenagers surveyed are at King George V Playing Fields and pleased with the the Gun Site Recreation Ground, the quality of sites Open Sustainable Action Timescale Section/Group Funding Performance Space Community Responsible Secured?/Resources Indicators Strategy Strategy Priority Ambition(s) Number(s) that can be covered
elderly at Leigh Beck Recreation Ground
3 2,4 Provide access and facilities for 2011/2012/ Not secured 75% of residents CASTLE people with disabilities at Woodside surveyed are Park & Runnymede Paddocks pleased with the quality of sites 4 9 2,4 Improve signage at Woodside Park 2013 Not secured: 75% of residents POINT
Signage costed at surveyed are delivery £400 - £500 per pleased with the basic sign quality of sites OPEN
4 2,4 Alter management schemes to Ongoing CPBC/EWT/ECC Not secured 75% of residents promote biodiversity, particularly at surveyed are SP The Crescent Recreation Ground, pleased with the ACES
King George V Playing Fields, Swans quality of sites of Green Recreation Ground, Tarpots STRA
Recreation Ground, Woodside Park, the Villa Road Recreation Ground, Kismet
Park, Labworth Park, Leigh Beck TEGY
Recreation Ground, Dyke Crescent & strategy Memorial Ground 2008 6 2,4 Provide additional/improved seating Long term 2013+ CPBC (Asset Not secured: 75% of residents
and street furniture at Swans Green Management Group) Seating and street surveyed are - 2013 63 64 CASTLE 4 Open Sustainable Action Timescale Section/Group Funding Performance Space Community Responsible Secured?/Resources Indicators delivery Strategy Strategy
Priority Ambition(s) POINT Number(s) that can be OPEN
covered of
Recreation Ground, Kismet Park & furniture costed at pleased with the SP the
The Crescent Recreation Ground £1200 per item quality of sites ACES (purchase and installation) strategy STRA 5 2,4 Create an identity for King George V Long term 2013+ CPBC (Asset Not secured 75% of residents Playing Fields, Memorial Ground, Management Group) surveyed are TEGY Runnymede Paddocks, The Gun Site pleased with the Recreation Ground & Dyke Crescent quality of sites 2008 6,8 2,4 Improve/introduce facilities at: The 2012 CPBC (Asset Not secured 75% of residents Crescent Recreation Ground, Management Group) surveyed are -
Woodside Park, The Gun Site, pleased with the 2013 Beveland Open Space & Labworth quality of sites Park
6 2,4 Clean up Tarpots Recreation Ground 2012 CPBC (Asset Not secured 75% of residents Management Group) surveyed are pleased with the quality of sites
2,6 2,4 Improve boundaries at Runnymede 2012 CPBC (Asset Not secured 75% of residents Paddocks & Villa Road Recreational Management Group) surveyed are Ground pleased with the quality of sites
2,6 2,4 Redesign sites to create more 2012 CPBC (Asset Not secured 75% of residents functional recreational areas in terms Management Group) surveyed are Open Sustainable Action Timescale Section/Group Funding Performance Space Community Responsible Secured?/Resources Indicators Strategy Strategy Priority Ambition(s) Number(s) that can be covered
of natural surveillance and to pleased with the discourage mis-use at The Gun Site quality of sites Recreation Ground, Labworth Park &
Dyke Crescent CASTLE
2,3 2,4 Re-surface roads leading to North Long term 2013+ CPBC (Asset Not secured 75% of residents Benfleet Hall Wood and Woodside Management Group) surveyed are 4 Park Playing Fields pleased with the POINT quality of sites delivery 7. Provision for young people and children OPEN 6,7 2,4,5 Carry out a review of all playground 2009 CPBC Current staff Review completed renewal carried out during the first phase of the renewal programme SP ACES
Continue to improve quality of all the playgrounds in the Borough through the Playground Renewal Programme: of
7,9 2,4,5 Continue to consult residents 2012 for all points CPBC (Street Secured: £300k Site audits show STRA regarding design of new playgrounds Scene) Capital budget over the sites meet the 3 years (07/08 to quality standards TEGY 10/11) set in the Open 2 2,4,5 Consider expanding into the recreation Extra funding Spaces Strategy strategy grounds for older age groups at John possible from 2008 H Burrows Veolia. - 2013 65 66 CASTLE 4 Open Sustainable Action Timescale Section/Group Funding Performance Space Community Responsible Secured?/Resources Indicators delivery Strategy Strategy
Priority Ambition(s) POINT Number(s) that can be OPEN
covered of
3 2,4,5 Improve access for all visitors, SP the
particularly at John H Burrows, ACES Memorial Ground, Swans Green, Esplanade Paddling pool, Thorney strategy Bay & The Paddocks Open Play Area STRA
8 2,4,5 Connect pathways ad entrances to the TEGY wider pathway network at Swans Green, Tarpots Play Area, Thorney
Bay & The Paddocks enclosed play 2008 area -
3,5 2,4,5 Make better provisions for parents and 2013 carers at the Memorial Ground medium play area & Kismet Park
2 2,4,5 Improve signage and give the site better identity at the Esplanade Paddling pool
6 2,4,5 Provide footpaths and safe pedestrian routes at Larup Gardens
6 2,4,5 Provide more/improved seating at Swans Green, Tarpots play area & Thundersley Common Recreation Ground play area Open Sustainable Action Timescale Section/Group Funding Performance Space Community Responsible Secured?/Resources Indicators Strategy Strategy Priority Ambition(s) Number(s) that can be covered
6 2,4,5 Increase visual interest through planting at The Crescent play area, Tarpots play area, Thundersley
Common Recreation Ground play CASTLE area, Kismet Park & Larup Gardens
8. Allotments and community gardens 4 Improve access to and facilities at all CPBC run allotments: POINT delivery 9 Reducing the size of Jotmans Farm Long term 2013+ CPBC (Asset Not secured All sites meet
Allotment (consider integration with Management Group) quality standards OPEN the school) set in the Open Space Strategy
2 Providing better car parking facilities Long term 2013+ CPBC (Asset Not secured SP
at London Road & Jotmans Farm Management Group) ACES
2 Upgrading pathways and improving Long term 2013+ CPBC (Asset Not secured of
boundaries at London Road, Jotmans Management Group) STRA Farm & Watlington the
2 Providing for disabilities at Watlington Long term 2013+ CPBC (Asset Not secured TEGY
Management Group) strategy
2 Improving entrances at Daws Heath, Long term 2013+ CPBC (Asset Not secured 2008 London Road & Watlington Management Group) - 2013 67 68 CASTLE 4 Open Sustainable Action Timescale Section/Group Funding Performance Space Community Responsible Secured?/Resources Indicators delivery Strategy Strategy
Priority Ambition(s) POINT Number(s) that can be OPEN
covered of
1,8 Consult allotment users regarding 2011 CPBC (Asset Not secured SP the
renovations of buildings at Daws Management Group) Consultation ACES Heath, and additional facilities needed carried out at each site strategy STRA 5,8 Create a Borough-wide Allotment 2011 CPBC/Allotment Not secured Allotment Association Societies Association set up TEGY
9 Carry out an investigation into the 2011 CPBC Not secured Investigation 2008 need for additional allotment provision carried out in the Borough - 6,9 Consider the proposal to enlarge Ongoing CPBC Not secured Proposal 2013 Waterside Allotments considered
9. Churchyards and cemeteries
Promote the use of cemeteries and churchyards as local amenity areas. Work with site owners to:
Improve pathways and connectivity to Long term 2013+ CPBC and local Not secured: the wider footpath network: partners 75% of residents Funding needed for surveyed are 2,3 2 -In general at St Michael’s Church pathway pleased with the improvement and quality of sites -In general at Woodside open space labour Open Sustainable Action Timescale Section/Group Funding Performance Space Community Responsible Secured?/Resources Indicators Strategy Strategy Priority Ambition(s) Number(s) that can be covered
- At St Mary’s Churchyard create better links with South Benfleet Playing Fields and Benfleet Town
Centre, CASTLE
- At St Peter’s Churchyard create links to Coombe Wood and the nearby 4 residential area POINT delivery - St James-the-less Churchyard, St
Katherine’s Churchyard & Willow OPEN Cemetery SP
Review DDA requirements at Long term 2013+ CPBC Not secured 75% of residents ACES Woodside Cemetery & St surveyed are 2 2 of James-the-less Churchyard pleased with the
quality of sites STRA the Tidy sites and associated buildings at Long term 2013+ CPBC/EWT/CPWG Not secured 75% of residents St Michael’s Church, South Benfleet surveyed are TEGY
6 2 strategy Cemetery, St Peter’s Churchyard pleased with the
quality of sites 2008 - 2013 69 70 CASTLE 4 Open Sustainable Action Timescale Section/Group Funding Performance Space Community Responsible Secured?/Resources Indicators delivery Strategy Strategy
Priority Ambition(s) POINT Number(s) that can be OPEN
covered of
Improve signage and boundaries at Long term 2013+ CPBC/LRP/site Not secured: 75% of residents SP the
South Benfleet Cemetery, Woodside managers Signage for sites surveyed are ACES 2,3 2 Cemetery, Willow Cemetery are a minimum of pleased with the £400- £500 each quality of sites strategy STRA Provide benches at St Peter’s Long term 2013+ CPBC/LRP/site Not secured: 75% of residents Churchyard managers Benches cost surveyed are TEGY approx. £1200 pleased with the 6 2 each to buy and quality of sites
install 2008 -
Change management regimes to Long term 2013+ CPBC/LRP/site Not secured 75% of residents 2013 encourage and develop the ecological managers surveyed are value of the site at St Michael’s pleased with the 4 2 Church, Woodside Cemetery, St quality of sites Mary’s Churchyard, St Peter’s Churchyard & St Katherine’s Churchyard
Improve the sense of identity at Willow Long term 2013+ CPBC/LRP/site Not secured 75% of residents Cemetery and create links with managers surveyed are 5 2 Canvey Wick SSSI. Include area to pleased with the the west of the cemetery in the SSSI. quality of sites
10. Thames Estuary
Continue to improve quality of the Thames Estuary through the Seafront Regeneration Project: Open Sustainable Action Timescale Section/Group Funding Performance Space Community Responsible Secured?/Resources Indicators Strategy Strategy Priority Ambition(s) Number(s) that can be covered
6 2,4 Renovate seating shelters and areas 2009 Regeneration Secured: £1 Regeneration Partnership million CLG completed Consider providing a greening strategy 2009 6 2,4 funding to the sea front Site continues to CASTLE Work with Natural England, ECC and Ongoing meet quality 4 2,4 other partners to promote biodiversity standards of the site 4 POINT
Devise a maintenance programme for Ongoing delivery 6 2,4 the site that will commence once the
project is completed OPEN
Table 4.1 Action Plan SP ACES of STRA the TEGY strategy 2008 - 2013 71 CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
72 4 delivery of the strategy
4.2 Further Work/Research Required
Most of this work will require revenue funding, but will need to be progressed to address the issues raised in the Strategy.
Project Project Description Open Priority Timescale No. Space Rating1 Strategy A-C Priority No.
i) Develop new revenue streams for 6, 7, 9 A 2009/10 open spaces and open space related projects
ii) Explore funding opportunities for 6, 7, 9 A 2009/10 capital investment schemes in open spaces, including Lottery and Heritage Funding
iii) Explore good practise in dealing with 2, 8 A 2009/10 conflicts of use in open spaces, including: widening access and the need to protect tranquillity, intergenerational conflicts in use, and dog access
iv) Investigate ways of providing and 6 A 2009/10 maintaining toilets in open spaces
v) Investigate ways of increasing 7, 8 A 2009/10 opportunities for informal play and recreation
vi) Develop a rolling programme for 7 A 2009/10 improving play facilities across the Borough
vii) Explore ways of improving the 2 A 2009/10 experience of visiting parks and open spaces for people with disabilities, by addressing concerns raised in consultation and improving facilities in consultation with disabled users.
viii) Produce ‘green map’ and information 2 B 2010-2012 leaflet and/or web page showing open spaces and walking routes, their facilities, wildlife and heritage value, CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
4 delivery of the strategy 73
Project Project Description Open Priority Timescale No. Space Rating1 Strategy A-C Priority No.
improved information about the Thames Estuary, and more information about events.
ix) Investigate how to deliver 3 B 2010-2012 enhancements to landscape links and walking routes
x) Devise a programme for enhancing 3, 4 B 2010-2012 the biodiversity, attraction, accessibility, and safety of the Borough's Green Corridors as a place to enjoy wildlife, relax, learn, and provide traffic-free routes for pedestrians and cyclists.
xi) Undertake a playing pitch strategy to 7 B 2010-2012 inform supply and demand in the Borough
xii) Conduct a public open space 3 C 2013+ connectivity and signage study and improvement programme.
xiii) Seek resources to implement changes 6, 9 C 2013+ for the enhancement of St James Churchyard and Labworth Park
xiv) Carry out a feasibility study into the 9 C 2013+ possibility of increasing provision of amenity green spaces in Benfleet
xv) Work with Hadleigh Allotment Society 2, 5 C 2013+ and users of council run allotments to create a Borough-wide Allotment Association
xvi) Assess impact of barriers to access of 2 C 2013+ open spaces. Where there is evidence of impaired access develop a programme to reduce impact of identified barriers to access. CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
74 4 delivery of the strategy
Project Project Description Open Priority Timescale No. Space Rating1 Strategy A-C Priority No.
xvii) Identify appropriate opportunities to 7, 9 C 2013+ make spaces ‘multifunctional’ (incl. School playgrounds)
xviii) Prepare design guidance for new and 5 C 2013+ existing open space on housing land
xix) Investigate opportunities for public 9 C 2013+ access to private open space by investigating feasibility, financial implications and opportunities for the CPBC to assume maintenance responsibilities of private spaces, in return for public access
xx) Determine the need for resources to 1, 4 C 2013+ support developers and planners in taking forward the council’s policies for nature conservation (including consideration of an SPD on Nature Conservation and Biodiversity) and sustainable construction and management techniques
xxi) Carry out feasibility study regarding 9 C 2013+ the development of other sites as urban parks and gardens and amenity green spaces
xxii) Formulate an evaluation of sustainable 1 C 2013+ and local sources that can be accessible from the council’s website.
xxiii) Seek resources for new playground 9 C 2013+ provision in amenity green spaces and in new residential areas. Consult residents regarding design and location.
Table 4.2 Further work/research required. CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
4 delivery of the strategy 75
1. Each project proposal has been allocated a priority rating A-C (A being the highest priority) reflecting the previous community consultation results. Projects (i) and (ii) were allocated priority rating A as most other projects will depend on funding.
4.3 Resources i. Partners
As set out in the Recreation Framework, the Council will need to work closely with other organisations, in particular with funding bodies, voluntary groups and charities in order to carry out the actions set out in the action plan. It is important to note that the Council uses Pinnacle for most of the grounds maintenance works in the Borough, such as grass cutting. The contract with Pinnacle runs until 2013 and therefore Pinnacle will be an important partner for the Council in terms of the delivery of the strategy. In terms of support, both financial and operational, for projects the Council envisages working with the following groups/organisations:
Allotment Associations Castle Point Wildlife Group Canvey Island Town Council Essex County Council Essex Wildlife Trust Funding through the Children’s Plan Groundwork Trust Heritage Lottery Fund Land Restoration Trust Liveability Resources Pinnacle Veolia ii. Sources
The Council has limited resources for the improvement of open spaces and outdoor sports facilities in the Borough. It is therefore the aim of the Council to be an “enabling” Council, meaning that it aims to support local projects through creating links between organisations and funding bodies. However, the Council will also be applying to funding bodies where appropriate for specific projects as detailed in the Action Plan within this document. One particular focus for sources of funding and other resources are the Borough’s Neighbourhood Forums, which will be able to direct funding into the relevant projects for each area.
Another potential source of funding and resources could be linked to the 2012 Olympic Games. The Olympic Games is likely to raise the level of interest in sport locally, which may lead to the injection of funding into sporting projects and improvements to recreational facilities in the Borough. In addition to this the creation of the facilities for the mountain bike events being held at Hadleigh Castle Country Park may offer another route for funding sources that will enable the Council to make improvements to open space related to the events. CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
76 4 delivery of the strategy
4.4 Timescales
Within this document there are key actions for each category of open space and there are detailed actions within the Draft Action Plan. These actions all have timescales associated with them that are related to the priority of each action for the improvement of open spaces in the Borough. Clearly these timescales will have to be variable to reflect available resources and other considerations, such as time given to public consultation for individual projects.
4.5 Monitoring and Review
The progress and delivery of the aims set out in this strategy will be measured in relation to a range of indicators:
Item to be reviewed Indicator Frequency
Action Plan Number of actions/projects achieved Annually and achieved by stated date
Effectiveness of emerging LDF The performance of LDF policies is Annually policies monitored in the AMR (Annual Monitoring Report) and submitted Increases/decreases in annually to Cabinet Members and open space deficiency GO East. Increases/decreases in play space deficiency
Further work/research required Number of projects achieved and Annually number of projects translated into actions in the Action Plan
Biodiversity in terms of: Monitored through NI197: “Improved Biennial Status of priority habitats Local Biodiversity – proportion of and species Local Sites where positive Change in status of LoWS conservation management has been Number of sites where or is being implemented” wildlife friendly management is being practised Number of projects to increase planting diversity
Use of open space Monitored through data collected Biennial Number of people using through the Place Survey, open space particularly using NI5 (“Overall/general satisfaction with local area”), and NI138 (“satisfaction CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
4 delivery of the strategy 77
Item to be reviewed Indicator Frequency
of people over 65 with both home and neighbourhood”)
Impact on local population Monitored through data collected Biennial Number of open spaces through the Place Survey, that are credited with a particularly using NI5 Green Flag (“Overall/general satisfaction with Increases in the number of local area”), NI138 (“satisfaction of green spaces people over 65 with both home and Number of neighbourhood”), NI17 (“Perception complaints/complements of anti-social behaviour”) and NI3 regarding parks and open (“Civic participation in the local spaces area”) Number of open space projects delivered though community partnerships
Table 4.3 Monitoring the progression of the Open Spaces Strategy.
The Action Plan and Table of Further Work/Research required will be reviewed annually in the following way:
Completed projects/actions can be removed New projects/actions will be added as appropriate and as funding permits Review of target dates
A database will be set up to keep a record of completed projects including monitoring details that can be cross-referenced back to the strategy priorities and other useful indicators for council monitoring systems.
As a Supplementary Planning Document the strategy itself will have a medium to long lifespan. During that time it will be necessary to assess whether the direction and focus of the strategy requires modification. The Strategy already reflects the Council’s Core Strategy and Sustainable Community Strategy, but new government guidance or new demographic data may necessitate a review of direction and focus. CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
78 A appendix 1
A Appendix 1
A.1 Appendix 1 Part 1
See insert at the back of the document for a site map of all the open space in the Borough that is accessible to the public. This map is to be used in conjunction with the information given in Table A.1 below.
A.2 Appendix 1 Part 2
Site Site name Category of open no. space
1 Arthur Stevens Open Space Natural and semi-natural area
2 The Crescent Recreation Ground Amenity green space
3 The Crescent Play Area Young people and children
4 The Glen Natural and semi-natural area
5 Hadleigh Castle Country Park Country Parks
6 John H Burrows Recreation Ground Outdoor sports facilities
7 John H Burrows Play Area Young people and children
8 King George V Playing Fields (Canvey) Amenity green space
9 King George V Play Area (Canvey Young people and children
10 Little Common Natural and semi-natural area
11 Memorial Ground Amenity green space
12 Memorial Ground (medium) Play Area Young people and children
13 Memorial Ground (small) Play Area Young people and children
14 Runnymede Paddocks Amenity green space
15 Shipwrights Wood Natural and semi-natural area CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
A appendix 1 79
Site Site name Category of open no. space
16 South Benfleet Playing Fields Outdoor sports facilities
17 South Benfleet Playing Fields Play Area Young people and children
18 Swans Green Recreation Ground Amenity green space
19 Swans Green Recreation Ground Play Area Young people and children
20 Tarpots Recreation Ground Amenity green space
21 Tarpots Play Area Young people and children
22 Thundersley Great Common Natural and semi-natural area
23 Thundersley Great Common Recreation Area Amenity green space
24 Thundersley Great Common Recreation Play Young people and Area children
25 Woodside Park Amenity green space
26 Woodside Park Playing Fields Outdoor sports facilities
27 Woodside Park Playing Fields Play Area (East) Young people and children
28 Woodside Park Playing Fields Play Area (West) Young people and children
29 Beveland Open Space Amenity green space
30 The Gun Site Recreation Ground Amenity green space
31 King George V Recreation Ground Outdoor sports facilities
32 King George V Play Area Young people and children
33 Kismet Park Amenity green space
34 Kismet Park Play Area Young people and children
35 Labworth Park Amenity green space CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
80 A appendix 1
Site Site name Category of open no. space
36 Inland Esplanade Green corridor
37 Thames Estuary waterside Thames Estuary / Waterfront
38 Esplanade Paddling Pool Young people and children
39 Thorney Bay Play Area Young people and children
40 The Lake Green Corridor
41 Larup Gardens Young people and children
42 Canvey FC Outdoor Sports Facilities
43 Leigh Beck Recreation Ground Amenity green space
44 Leigh Beck Recreation Ground Play Area Young people and (small) children
45 Leigh Beck Recreation Ground Play Area Young people and (large) children
46 The Paddocks Amenity green space
47 The Paddocks open Play Area Young people and children
48 The Paddocks enclosed play area Young people and children
49 Russell Head Farm (privately owned) Amenity green space
50 Smallgains Recreation Ground Outdoor Sports Facilities
51 Southwick Dyke Green corridor
52 Tewkes Creek Recreation Ground Outdoor Sports Facilities
53 Tewkes Creek Natural and semi-natural area
54 Villa Road Recreation Ground Amenity green space CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
A appendix 1 81
Site Site name Category of open no. space
55 Villa Road Play area Young people and children
56 Waterside Farm Recreation Ground Outdoor Sports Facilities
57 Waterside Farm Play Area Young people and children
58 Waterside Farm Skate Ramp Young people and children
59 Canvey Heights Country Park Natural and semi-natural area
60 Two Trees Island Country Park
61 Concord Rovers pitch Outdoor Sports Facilities
62 Dutch Cottage Garden Urban parks and gardens
63 Northwick Road Playing Fields Outdoor Sports Facilities
64 The Chase Playing Fields Outdoor Sports Facilities
65 Elm Road tennis club Outdoor Sports Facilities
66 Haven Road Recreation Ground Outdoor Sports Facilities
67 St Michaels Church Natural and semi-natural area
68 South Benfleet Cemetery Churchyards and Cemeteries
69 Woodside Cemetery Churchyards and Cemeteries
70 St, Mary's Churchyard Churchyards and Cemeteries
71 St. Peter's Churchyard Churchyards and Cemeteries
72 St. James-the-less Churchyard Churchyards and Cemeteries
73 Willow Cemetery Churchyards and Cemeteries CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
82 A appendix 1
Site Site name Category of open no. space
74 St. Katherine's Churchyard Churchyards and Cemeteries
75 Daws Heath Allotment Allotments or community gardens
76 London Road Allotment Allotments or community gardens
77 Jotmans Farm Allotment Allotments or community gardens
78 Waterside Farm Allotment Allotments or community gardens
79 Smallgains Allotment Allotments or community gardens
80 Watlington Allotment Allotments or community gardens
81 North Benfleet Hall Wood Natural and semi-natural area
82 Coombe Wood Natural and semi-natural area
83 Starvelarks Wood Natural and semi-natural area
84 Tile Wood Natural and semi-natural area
85 Wyburn Wood (Tile Wood West) Natural and semi-natural area
86 Pound Wood Natural and semi-natural area
87 Great Wood Nature Reserve Natural and semi-natural area
88 Dodds Grove Natural and semi-natural area
89 Great Wood Golf Course Natural and semi-natural area CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
A appendix 1 83
Site Site name Category of open no. space
90 West Wood Natural and semi-natural area
91 Fane Wood Natural and semi-natural area
92 Castle Point Golf Course Outdoor Sports Facilities
93 Boyce Hill Golf Course Outdoor Sports Facilities
94 Kingston Primary School Outdoor Sports Facilities
95 Thundersley Infant and Junior Schools Outdoor Sports Facilities
96 Cedar Hall School Outdoor Sports Facilities
97 King John Senior School Outdoor Sports Facilities
98 The Deanes School Outdoor Sports Facilities
99 Appleton School Outdoor Sports Facilities
100 Kents Hill Infant and Junior Schools Outdoor Sports Facilities
101 Jotmans Hall Primary School Outdoor Sports Facilities
102 Robert Drake Primary School Outdoor Sports Facilities
103 Montgomerie Junior and Infant School Outdoor Sports Facilities
104 Glenwood School Outdoor Sports Facilities
105 Hadleigh Junior School Outdoor Sports Facilities
106 Westwood Primary School Outdoor Sports Facilities
107 South Benfleet Primary School Outdoor Sports Facilities
108 St Katherines Primary School Outdoor Sports Facilities
109 St Josephs Primary School Outdoor Sports Facilities
110 Leigh Beck Nursery, Infant and Junior Schools Outdoor Sports Facilities
111 Lubbins Park Primary School Outdoor Sports Facilities
112 Northwick Park Nursery, Infant and Junior Outdoor Sports Facilities Schools CASTLE POINT OPEN SPACES STRATEGY 2008 - 2013
84 A appendix 1
Site Site name Category of open no. space
113 William Read Primary School Outdoor Sports Facilities
114 Canvey Infant and Junior Schools Outdoor Sports Facilities
115 Castle View School Outdoor Sports Facilities
116 Cornelius Vermuyden School Outdoor Sports Facilities
117 Furtherwick Park School Outdoor Sports Facilities
118 Dyke Crescent Amenity green space
119 West Canvey Marshes Natural and semi-natural area
120 Canvey Wick SSSI Natural and semi-natural area
Table A.1 Site map showing all the open spaces in the Borough that are accessible to the public.