Southampton’s Green Space Strategy Summary and Action Plan Information from Southampton City Council about Southampton’s Parks and Green Spaces Green spaces great places Contents page number page number

Foreword 1 Southampton standards 18 Vision 1 Accessibility 18 Executive summary 2 Travel access 19 Physical access on site 20 The value of parks 3 Quantity standard 21 Definition of green space 3 Quality standard 22 Why we have parks 3 Protection grades 23 The added value of parks to Southampton 4 Planning obligations and green spaces 24 Why we need a Action Plan 7 Action Plan 25 About the strategy 8 Aims of the green space strategy 8 Maps 37 Scope of the strategy 10 Southampton's Open Spaces 37 Green spaces in Southampton shown by their Where are we now? 14 type when following the hierachy 38 Recent trends 14 Buffer zone around city and district parks Quantity and distribution 15 in Southampton 39 National standards and PPG17 16 Buffer zones around parks and other Green Categories of green space in Southampton 17 space in Southampton, Allotments, Cemeteries, Improving parks and green space 17 Schools and Civic spaces have not been included 40

Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality 1. Foreword Vision

Good quality green spaces are an essential part of Southampton’s future that offer The 20 year vision for Southampton’s parks and green spaces; a wide variety of facilities and activities for the whole community. They are the ‘green lungs’ of the city and make Southampton a unique place to live and visit. “Southampton will be recognised as the regional Green We have heard from many people and received some very positive feedback that City, with a range of fine parks and open spaces that are clearly show that the people of Southampton care for their parks and green spaces. easily accessible, represent good value for money and It is therefore essential that we continue to care for and protect our green spaces so delivered in partnership with the local community for that future generations are also able to enjoy them. everyone to enjoy.” Green spaces are at the heart of many communities and it is essential that they remain so. By continued community involvement we can make our green spaces sustainable and I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone that help to manage our green spaces and encourage those of you that don’t to get involved.

Our recent Green Flag Award successes show that investment in parks is underway and working. However we must continue to reinvigorate all our green spaces so that Southampton can continue to be the ‘Green City’ of the south.

I am thrilled to endorse the Southampton Green Space Strategy “Green Spaces Great Places” and believe it is an important document that will enable us to prioritise where there is a need for improvement and guide planning policy to ensure green spaces are protected into the future.

Cllr Phillip Williams Cabinet Member for Housing and Local Services 1

Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality Executive Summary Recognising the value of our parks and green spaces

Southampton is very lucky to have had a network of great green spaces right Encouraging more active community and neighbourhood involvement in the across and into the heart of the city for well over 150 years. It is a fantastic “Green management and maintenance of a park or green space is a key feature of the City” with a good spread of quality parks and green spaces across the city that draft strategy. Successful Southampton examples of proactive friends groups and attracted over 17 million visits by local residents in 2006. The current high levels societies achieving increased resources are highlighted and suggested as possible of satisfaction with the parks service, delivered at a relatively low cost, indicates a case studies for other areas of the city to follow. good value for money service reflecting the general recognition by residents that parks and green spaces are one of the city's best assets. The document outlines a number of recommendations to address concerns about anti-social behaviour in parks. Nationally there is growing support for encouraging This document highlights that parks and green spaces are playing an increasingly more people into parks and having staff visible and based in the parks as being important role in developing the city economy, promoting health and wellbeing, green the most effective way to encourage appropriate behaviour and deter anti-social transport links, improving biodiversity in the city, helping communities come together behaviour. The strategy also supports Play Services in improving the quality and and get involved as well as assisting in addressing the effects of climate change. provision of play facilities for children and young people.

In reviewing our green spaces we have also recognised that just over 20% of the This strategic action plan is the first part of the ongoing dialogue in developing total area of the city is covered by green space managed by the city council and that a much more detailed and long term vision for Southampton’s parks and green some areas of green space fall below expectations. In developing a green space spaces. The aim of this publication is to establish the basis for decision making strategy there are proposals to establish a Southampton standard for the different over the next 1-5 years. Early priorities for improvements are identified in section 6. types of green space with a goal of generally raising the quality, where possible the It is part of the ongoing consultation with local people and we will be continuing quantity and improving access to a variety of parks and green spaces. This will be to seek feedback from Southampton residents about the proposals so we can increasingly important as Southampton continues to develop and grow. ensure they reflect the current needs and the improvements most important to you. Appropriate consultation will be taken over the next 1-5 years to make sure Initial research and feedback has highlighted that there is a need to address the all are involved with the final Green Space Strategy. Evidence will be collected overall quantity and quality of our green spaces. The distance from your home to and collated within the Green Space Technical Document and this will be regularly a good quality green space is important and the current provision has been mapped. updated on the web site. For more information go to www.southampton.gov.uk/gss. However more work on how locally accessible green spaces are in terms of distance from your home is proposed. In some areas of the city we appear to have a high 2 provision in terms of quantity but the green spaces are of a low quality standard.

Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality 2. The value of Southampton’s parks Why we have parks “Time and again, perceptions of the value of the local Records of parks and green spaces in Southampton date back into the thirteenth century, however by the middle of the nineteenth century specifically designed area and confidence in its future have been enhanced and laid out parks were being constructed in the centre of the city. These parks because of the physical improvements to the park. It fitted in with Southampton’s former Spa status and provided all classes of people with areas to restore their health and wellbeing. Parks were also seen as areas to has been an important factor in increasing confidence encourage social cohesion, where all social classes could visit. to stay in the area rather than to relocate elsewhere. By contrast, under-investment over previous decades 150 years on and Southampton’s green spaces are still fundamentally about health and wellbeing, although there are now many other reasons for protecting in parks and green spaces has deterred investment and enhancing our green spaces. They are often focal points for the community, in the area. Investing in green spaces reverses this promoting active citizenship and providing safe areas for children and young spiral decline enhancing the social, economic and people to play, grow and mature. Their value in improving the economy is now being recognised by the business community, with increased interest in building environmental well-being of our communities” near to green spaces and the higher value attached to properties overlooking green spaces. Paul Morrell CABE Commissioner Despite their positive contribution to society and the city’s economy the funding for Definition Of Green Space green spaces has gradually decreased, through reducing resources, over the past 20 – 30 years. A lack of recognition of parks services in the Government’s annual Southampton has a wide variety of green spaces. This strategy is concerned with all standard spending assessment for local authorities combined with the fact that the publicly accessible green space owned by the Council, including parks, recreation provision of public parks services is a non statutory service have all contributed to grounds, cemeteries, housing green space, highway green space and natural green their declining condition and status. space as well as the facilities and play areas within these spaces. The strategy also touches on other green space, such as privately owned green space (especially This strategy aims to assist in helping rediscover the wider value of Southampton’s where it has public access) and more restricted spaces such as school fields and parks and green spaces, providing a positive way forward in safeguarding allotments. Green space is any area that provides “green” features such as grass these key resources that will have a significant impact on the quality of the local or trees or shrubs. environment for future generations. 3

Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality The added value of parks to 2. Social Dimension of Parks Southampton’s green spaces are used by a wide variety of the community. Many Southampton use green spaces to socialise and often meet other like minded people. People have picnics, walk dogs, go to events and all are welcome. Dog walkers often see The contribution that well managed parks and green spaces make to the overall the green spaces at times of the day when many others do not. They are the eyes streetscene of Southampton, to the physical and mental well-being of residents and ears in the early morning and late afternoon and play an important role in the and visitors and their value in developing the local economy should be clear to management of green space. However, there are areas where it is not desirable for everyone. CABE Space (the governments advisor on public space) identifies seven dogs to roam. These are already clearly marked in most green spaces and include key areas of contribution which are applicable to Southampton. children’s play areas and education land. In 2005 new legislation came into being enabling the Council to formalise “dog control”. The Council is therefore looking 1. Economic Value into how to apply this legislation, which overrides byelaws and any previous legislation on dog fouling. Full public consultation must be undertaken before As Southampton increasingly competes with other regional cities for investment, any dog control orders are put in place. The Council’s proposals will therefore be the presence of good parks, gardens and other public spaces becomes a vital published within the next 12 months. business and marketing tool. Companies want to relocate to places with good quality local environments that are attractive to their employees and customers. 3. Health and Wellbeing Properties close to good quality parks and green spaces attract higher property values. This provides an overall economic gain to the city where there are more Relaxing or participating in active exercise in a park or green space is an effective opportunities for developments close to high quality green spaces. way to tackle poor health in an urban area. Southampton’s Health and Wellbeing Partnership has adopted the term “Fit for Life” as one of its cross cutting themes and green spaces can assist in addressing a number of the local priorities identified in the well being plan. There are concerns regarding mental and physical fatigue given the stressful lives that many now lead. Each year the economy loses millions of working days through stress-related employee absence. Access to good-quality, well-maintained public spaces can help to improve both physical and mental health by encouraging us to walk more, to play sport, or simply to enjoy a green and natural environment. The Active Southampton action plan builds on the work 4 started in the Southampton Parks Project and encourages the use of parks and green spaces for a culture of physical activity.

Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality 4. Climate Change and Biodiversity 5. Movement in and Between Spaces (Green Grid) The exact impact that climate change will have in Southampton over the next 20 Southampton has had a network of greenways since the 1980’s. These are ribbons years is not fully known however it is clear that any significant increase in hard of open spaces which follow stream valleys through the city. They form valuable surfacing and the reduction in green spaces in the city will lead to higher temperatures breaks in built-up areas or between built development, with the primary purpose than in the surrounding countryside. This is known as the ‘heat island effect’. of improving biodiversity and acting as a “green lung” buffer between buildings. Southampton’s many parks and green spaces – whether in public spaces or private These greenways provide a good basis on which to improve access between gardens – can help to redress this imbalance. Green spaces bring many important Southampton’s open spaces and the surrounding countryside outside of the City. environmental benefits to urban areas, including the cooling of air, storage of There are opportunities to develop a green grid, with green routes for walking & water, reducing the risk of flooding and the absorption of atmospheric pollutants. cycling, which contribute towards the sustainable transport plan for movements around the city. This aspiration links with the recently adopted Rights of Way Whilst there is no definitive view of the effects of climate change, we are expecting Improvement Plan and should ensure that people walking in Southampton can do more extremes of weather with warmer wetter winters and drier hotter summers. so in a pleasant environment away from cars wherever possible. This will impact on maintenance regimes and we are already working towards adapting design and planting in green spaces to minimise this impact. Research Cycling in green spaces is recognised as a major issue for many users. The main and work on this will continue into the future. Southampton is also committed to issue appears to be with the conflicts between those walking, those wishing to an urban canopy initiative, which will ensure that large canopy trees are planted use green space to commute on bicycle, those wishing to use the green space for back into the city. These will help to reduce city temperatures, hold up rain fall leisure cycling with their families, and the local byelaws. In order to address these thus helping to reduce flooding and help to improve air quality. issues it is recommended that a wider public consultation is undertaken, within the life of this strategy, with the aim of providing clarification on the legality of, and Southampton needs to be part of the wider picture with regards to climate change. solutions to, cycling in green spaces. It will only be through many small changes in many cities, towns and villages that the effects of climate change will be diminished. Green Spaces in Southampton 6. Improving Safety therefore have a definite role to play in reducing the effects of climate change and making the city a more pleasant place to live. A recent survey in Southampton showed that an overwhelming 84% said they either felt safe or very safe in the parks (during the day) and only 5% said that they did not feel safe. However, children and young people, for example, are often prevented from using our parks because of their parents’ fears about crime and lone women often feel vulnerable in public green spaces. Physical changes to, and better management of public space in Southampton are helping to allay these 5 fears. Such changes can help everyone to make the most of public spaces.

Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality 7. Benefits for Children and Young People grassland, woodlands, water / wet areas, playing pitches, areas for solitude, areas for meeting friends which encourage and stimulate play in a safe and natural Every Child Matters, the Government agenda for improving services for children and environment. Where play equipment is provided it complies with the latest health young people, published in 2003, identified five outcomes that are important for every and safety guidance. Play areas are regularly inspected and hazards are cleared, child and young person. These outcomes have been taken up in the Southampton such as broken glass and litter. Where graffiti is offensive it is removed within 24 Partnership document “Children and Young Peoples Plan for Southampton”. hours of being reported.

The Southampton play strategy reflects the growing national trend to recognise and To enjoy and achieve. develop more natural playful spaces with higher overall play value rather than the Green spaces can provide opportunities for young people to experience learning traditional fixed play equipment areas. Integrating play into the parks and green beyond a formal setting which stimulates their interest in the natural environment space landscapes also encourages more mixed age play and provides a seamless and encourages their curiosity. link into the wider parks and green spaces. Work is underway to develop a play area improvement action plan that mirrors the three parks categories (City, District To make a positive contribution. and Local see p16), so that joint play/park improvements can be delivered. Green Young people are encouraged to get involved and express their views when Spaces support the aims and aspirations of the Children and Young Peoples Plan changes to parks and green spaces are being considered. However this is a for Southampton and the Play Strategy in the following ways. challenging user group to obtain feedback from and a future action in the strategy seeks to improve how engagement with young people in planning our green To be healthy. spaces can be more effectively delivered. Young people can also get involved Green spaces provide a wide range of free and accessible places for children and practically through schemes like the Junior Neighbourhood Wardens, friends of young people within Southampton to take part in formal and informal sports and the parks groups and specific users groups which help build self esteem and fitness activities. confidence.

To stay safe. To achieve economic well being. Play opportunities should challenge and stimulate children's abilities but not Parks and green spaces contribute to achieving a vibrant and prosperous city, threaten their survival or well-being. Varied and stimulating places for play, will which in turn helps create more local work opportunities for Southampton continue to be provided, that recognise children’s need to encounter and manage residents. There are direct work placement opportunities and training schemes risk and challenge. In addition to the traditional equipped play areas parks and for young people to experience work in the parks service. These provide specific 6 green spaces also provide a wide range of natural features, such as undulating opportunities as a career starting point for a number of Southampton students.

Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality Why we need a strategic Action Plan

Having a strategic approach to managing our green spaces helps to identify the By adopting a strategic approach to Southampton green spaces it should help to : links with other local objectives that green space provision can help deliver, • Develop a shared vision including health, planning, regeneration, transport, recreation, children’s services • Generate political and inter-departmental support for green spaces and education, social services and the environment. The future management of • Lead to the creation of a comprehensive policy framework for protecting, green spaces in Southampton will need to consider their importance in supporting enhancing and creating green spaces wider objectives including the economic growth of the city. • Define the value and role of green spaces in meeting corporate and community aims • Make sure that green spaces enhance the quality and diversity of the environment as well as promoting civic pride and social inclusion • Ensure that the green space network meets local needs – now and in the future • Involve voluntary and community groups in green space provision and management • Allocate resources in a way that maximises the value of capital investment and revenue expenditure

In order to develop some of the benefits outlined above, the strategy aims to provide a framework that is appropriate for Southampton’s green spaces that classifies spaces and sets standards for their quality, quantity and accessibility. This will enable better needs assessment and resource prioritisation to target improvements and funding to achieve higher quality parks and green spaces for all the community. The classification, standards and prioritisation process also enables better targeting of council funding and greater leverage in terms of external sources. The key work required to do this is summarised in the form of an action plan at the end of this document. 7

Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality This can be achieved by: 3. About the strategy • agreeing the range of different types of parks and green spaces across the city and agreeing a “Southampton” standard. Southampton’s Green Space Strategy is made up of two documents. These are the • ensuring that good quality green spaces are accessible to all communities. Southampton Green Space Strategic Action Plan and the Southampton Green Space Technical Document. The action plan describes what is needed to be done to move ii. To promote active community involvement and improved access for citizens and visitors the strategy forwards and the technical document is the evidence base where all Green Spaces are for people and in Southampton we want to put people at the results of the actions are maintained for use in future policy making. the heart of the service. The technical document has highlighted examples of good work already being undertaken to include local people in the design, maintenance and management of the green spaces and this will be expanded over the coming years (see Chapter 4 People in Parks of the technical document). Aims of the green space Busy green spaces are safer spaces and the importance of increasing the visible presence in parks in particular (and some green spaces) has been highlighted at strategic action plan national and local level.

The City of Southampton Strategy includes a requirement for the city to “have a This can be achieved by: varied and exciting cultural landscape and be known for its innovative and creative • maximising the opportunities for local people to take an active role in the businesses, leisure opportunities and fine parks and open spaces”. Recognising management and development of their green spaces the contribution that well managed parks and open spaces can make to the • ensuring the needs of different sections of the community are clearly achievement of this 20 year vision, the following key aims have been developed: recognised and provided for • listening to the aspirations of local communities and friends groups for their i. To provide a network of high quality green spaces contributing to a unique green spaces. sense of place • encourage informal use of green spaces for such activities as sports (not on It has been recognised that there needs to be a series of parks and green formalised pitch/court), picnics, dog walking, etc spaces across the city providing a variety of experiences for everyone to easily • Clearly indentify green spaces where performances and events can take place access. The collective green spaces will be seen as a major positive influence on and ensure they are fully promoted. establishing Southampton as the Green City in the region. Information on the • Exploring opportunities to encourage people to congregate in areas of green green space quality, quantity and accessible distance contained in the strategy space, such as seats that people can arrange themselves, board games areas 8 will be used in shaping future planning decisions. or arts markets.

Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality iii. To establish the contribution parks make in developing the city economy and This can be achieved by: cultural opportunities • developing, promoting and demonstrating the importance of the natural The close proximity of good quality parks and green spaces has been shown environment and improving biodiversity citywide. to positively affect the value of property and this in turn boosts the economic • developing a series of practical green space adaptations that will positively prosperity of the city. There is an opportunity to develop parks as event spaces, contribute towards reducing the impact of climate change in the city and lead boosting the city’s economy and promoting the cultural experience. There are a to more sustainable environments. number of ‘hidden gem’ green spaces in Southampton that many Southampton • developing a green grid across the city residents are not aware of or do not appreciate are on their doorstep. v. To maximise value for money and resources available This can be achieved by: The current level of service reflects a low cost high quality service, however • highlighting and raising the profile of the significant contribution made by there are significant concerns about the current infrastructure standards and green spaces to the economic, health, social and cultural development of the the challenge is to build on the current value for money position to ensure that City and the region. future services can be sustained. There is a need to attract other resources to • developing a marketing / communications plan as part of the development support the core funding through external grants, community volunteering, of the Southampton brand to promote the wide variety of green spaces that partnerships and sponsorships. we have in Southampton and highlighting seasonal special features more effectively This can be achieved by: • exploring new funding sources and identifying partnerships for targeted iv. To achieve attractive and sustainable green spaces in the city projects Southampton has a fantastic mix of formal parks and gardens through to Sites • developing opportunities for volunteer working. of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI’s) and local natural spaces. Further work to • exploring new opportunities for attracting income develop a more cohesive green grid network for people and wildlife to move around the city is required. There are a series of targets to achieve in terms of increasing biodiversity and sustainability that will enrich the city and potentially lead to increased resources. There are also a series of significant and positive actions that parks and green spaces can contribute towards reducing the impact of climate change in Southampton: 9

Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality Scope of strategy Southampton’s Green Space Strategic Action Plan has National/Regional national and regional links. At a national level it fits Cleaner, Safer, Greener into the Governments Cleaner, Safer, Greener agenda. Greening the South Sub Regional At a regional level it links to the Partnership for Urban South Hampshire (PUSH) and the emerging PUSH infrastructure plan that has come from this partnership. Green Grid In line with the information coming out of the PUSH Growth Points Local City of Southampton infrastructure study this action plan advocates a Green Strategy Grid approach to ensure there are green links across Local Development the city and to the wider countryside in Hampshire. It Framework Southampton’s Green District promotes the use of local urban green spaces, reducing Space Strategy the pressure on the potentially more sensitive habitats Area Action Plans in the countryside, whilst recognising the greater links Patch Plans through to areas such as The New Forest, Country Parks and other Hampshire green spaces which are important as wildlife corridors. The City of Southampton strategy was adopted by the The strategy makes reference to “the imaginative Southampton Partnership in 2007. This sets out a vision and aspirations for Southampton over the next 20 years. and creative use of public spaces”; “safe and Site Based welcoming open spaces for everyone”; and “a Appropriate level There are six key objectives: Management Plans • People proud of their city and making a positive place that people naturally gravitate towards for contribution a high quality experience in all aspects of urban • Learning and innovation at its heart • A dynamic business environment life and that people are proud to promote”. • An attractive, sustainable and stimulating environment 10 • Imaginative arts and cultural opportunities • A unique sense of place

Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality At a Local level this action plan follows closely the goals of the City of Southampton With the current high level of overall satisfaction with parks and green spaces Strategy and feeds into the Local Development Framework as part of protecting (84% in 2006) the short term actions are targeted at improving those categories green spaces across Southampton. Southampton City Council is currently working of green space that were identified early in the process as obviously falling below on its Local Development Framework. This new style development plan will consist the relevant Southampton standard. In order to address some of these issues as of a folder of documents and will include the Core Strategy containing the general quickly as possible, over £300,000 of capital funding has been made available principles for development in the city. The principles proposed include improving for early win projects. This will increase the chances of achieving Green Flag and the accessibility and quality of open space, protecting and enhancing the natural biodiversity targets for 2010 contained in the Local Area Agreement. environment, ensuring there is enough quantity of different types of green space and creating sustainable neighbourhoods.

The strategy will be used as an evidence base to underpin the emerging policies coming out of the LDF. It will provide evidence for the Core Strategy and address the Council’s responsibilities to take the guidelines under PPG17 forward. It will feed into the Allocations plan and the standards will inform the Development Control Policies Document, the resulting Planning Obligations Supplementary Planning Document and The City Centre Action Plan.

It is envisaged that this action plan will be a continuously evolving document reflecting the nature of land management in general and customer feedback. The key steps needed to move this action plan forward over the next few years are summarised in this document. The recommendations outlined in the action plan will be refined into policy and implemented.

The action plan outlines a broad framework of types of spaces that recognise the diverse but distinct elements of the green grid network. These will be enhanced over the coming years with more detailed surveys to provide even greater clarity over prioritisation of resource allocation. 11

Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality Linked strategies

The City of Southampton Strategy

Health & Cultural Local Development Wellbeing Frame work Strategy Local Strategy Trees & Core Strategy - Spatial Allotment Woodland Neighbourhood Plan Plan Renewal Strategy

Greenways Biodiversity Plan Action Plan Green Spaces The Street Housing Scene Strategy Strategy Strategy Open Spaces Strategy Play Area Housing Action Plan Green Space Plan

UCI Active Sports Facility Southampton Urban Canopy Children & Strategy Local Plan Review Plan Initiative City Safety Young People (Adopted) Strategy Plan for Southampton

Key

Large circles = Key Strategies Medium circles = Other relevant Play Playing Strategy Pitch Strategy SCC Strategies Small circles = Action Plans Medium Term Service & Financial Plan = Existing = To be completed 12

Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality Supporting this action plan is the Southampton Green Space Technical Document To obtain a copy of the detailed technical document please write to: that provides the detail and background about Southampton’s green spaces. The technical document includes information on data collection and interpretation Southampton City Council along with an evidence base for the recommendations that include; setting Open Spaces Team standards for green spaces in terms of quantity and quality; agreeing protection Town Depot levels; encouraging more community involvement; promoting positive behaviour in Albert Road North parks; current resources and long term funding of green spaces; engaging young Southampton SO14 5AT people; increasing biodiversity and the role for parks and green spaces in climate change mitigation. The key steps needed to gain this evidence over the next few Or email [email protected] or visit www.southampton.gov.uk/gss years are summarised at the end of this document as an action plan. The action and follow the links to the Green Space Strategy document plan will enable the evidence to be refined into policy and implemented through the planning process aligning it with emerging policy in the Local Development The action plan will be maintained on the Council website so that ongoing Framework. progress can be readily viewed. Appropriate consultation will be undertaken as necessary and the feedback will be collated and reviewed and used to develop In developing the strategy, there has been extensive technical and customer the technical document. A focus on the actions required to progress the parks and research/ analysis. green spaces over the next 1 - 5 years will be the first priority. However during this period more detailed work will be undertaken to ascertain the order of investment Technical: Mapping of all green spaces onto GIS database needed over a 20 year period to address the infrastructure investment gap that Value assessment of spaces & benchmarking is highlighted in this document. Progress of the action plan will be monitored Auditing Open Spaces (Global to Local) through the councils performance management system on a quarterly basis and Quality assessment through the scrutiny panel system. Professional knowledge of staff

Customer: Satisfaction surveys Feedback from friends groups Previous research Equalities Impact Assessment 13

Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality 4. Where are we now? Recent trends

Residents and visitors to Southampton often tell us that the parks and green spaces Although satisfaction is high with parks and open spaces, as the service is non- are one of the things they like best about the city. statutory, funding for these spaces has been on a downward trend for several years. This has led to a managed decline of standards and failing infrastructure Here are some facts you may not know about green spaces in Southampton: in some areas of the parks and green spaces. This situation is not unique to • Just over 20% of the total area of Southampton is made up of green spaces that Southampton and is a concern in many parts of the country. Audit Commission are managed by the council figures show a 35% reduction in revenue budgets for urban parks from 1988 to • Southampton has 49 parks, 23 allotments, 8 greenways,over 20,000 individual 2005 and the Public Park Assessment by the audit commission in 2001 highlighted grass and shrub plots making up amenity green spaces and over 80 other green a loss of features in parks and a decline in maintenance standards . spaces that make up around 1,140 Hectares of land • There were estimated to be over 17million visits to the parks by local residents We now have an opportunity in Southampton to set local standards to ensure that in 2006/7. improvements to our parks and green spaces are prioritised and planned appropriately. • The staff that look after these spaces are dedicated to achieving continuous improvement and have contributed to an increase in customer satisfaction in the parks from 68% to 84% in just 6 years. • There are currently over 15 active friends of… groups helping to manage, raise funds for and maintain parks and green spaces in Southampton.

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Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality Quantity and distribution

Southampton’s parks and green spaces range in size from a triangle of grass at Map 2 shows buffer zones around the City Parks and District Parks. It can be seen the corner of the road to large areas such as the Common and Sports Centre. They that the distribution of these two types of parks is on the whole central to the provide everything from a space for a deck chair to artificial ski slopes, play, golf city, and this is to be expected as they are types of parks that should draw people and wildlife watching. They have rare species of plants and animals, champion into the city centre and provide an amenity for both residents and visitors to the trees, listed monuments and sporting facilities. city. There is a clear lack of this type of provision in the east of the city, with little opportunity to rectify this within the city boundary. However, parks such as Royal Mapping all of Southampton’s green spaces has enabled us to look at what Victoria Country park in Eastleigh do go some way to improve this situation. provision there is in the city for different types. The three plans attached at the end of this document show differing buffer zones based on the walking distance Map 3 Shows the Local Park provision, amenity green space where it is over 0.1 ha in the travel access standard for each green space type. It should be noted that in size, sports spaces and nature green spaces. This gives a good picture of where major barriers have not been taken into consideration when presenting these this type of provision is lacking, however, it must be remembered that for some maps, but it is recognised that the river, railway and major roads can significantly people the City and District parks will also be their local park and therefore gaps reduce the accessibility of green spaces to some of the population. Future work on would be filled by these types of green space. Overall there is a good distribution determining provision will be undertaken to include such barriers. of green space within walking distance to most peoples homes.

Map 1 shows the green space broken down into its individual types when following the hierarchy. This gives a broad overview of the distribution of different types of green space across the city. Large gaps along the south can be put down to the extensive dock land in this area.

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Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality PPG17 Level i (formal parks and gardens) City Parks

Neighbourhood Parks

Local Parks

PPG 17 v Amenity Green Space (amenity green spaces)

PPG17 – ii, iii, iv, vi, vii, viii, ix, x Other Green Spaces

“The Government believes that open space standards National standards and are best set locally. National standards cannot cater PPG 17 for local circumstances”, Planning Policy Guidance 17, p.6

There is a requirement from the government that all planning authorities undertake an audit of open City Parks space following Planning Policy Guidance 17 (PPG17). images Southampton City Council carried out an audit of open spaces in 2005 following PPG17 guidelines, and categorised Southampton’s parks and green spaces into their predominant use. However, as District Parks spaces are often used for more than one purpose, prioritising resources based on their predominant use is difficult. In accordance with PPG 17, Southampton has developed some local standards. One of these Local Parks images is a categorisation of the green spaces in the city which reflects each of the space’s multifunctional use. PPG17 provides 10 categories for open spaces, however it is proposed in this strategy to use only 5 categories. There are 3 park types (City, District, Amenity Green Space Local), Amenity Green Space and then all Other Green Space. This simplified hierarchy enables standards to be established that are relevant to the size and images catchment area of the different types of green space Other Green Spaces as well as giving a structure for management plans and an ability to upgrade spaces to ensure each type is appropriately distributed across the city. 16

Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality Weston Estate, Millbrook Estate, Lordswood Estate, Asylum Green, Romsey Road Categories of green space in Southampton Roundabout.

In order to be able to set and apply the local standards, Southampton is proposing • Other Green Space – These include sports areas, woodlands and natural to adopt the following classification of green spaces: (there are more details on the spaces, cemeteries, allotments, civic spaces, school grounds and privately criteria for the categories in the technical document) owned publicly accessible spaces. Sites include the Golf Course, the Greenways, Harefield woods, St Mary’s Extra cemetery, 23 allotments sites, Bitterne precinct, • City Parks (destination parks) – that attract people from outside Southampton over 80 schools, Marlhill Copse etc. and may have national importance, have a range of facilities and features. They include Central Parks (Grade II Listed park), Southampton Common (SSSI), Sports Centre, Mayflower Park, Weston Shore (SSSI) Improving Parks and Green Spaces

• District Parks - attract people from across the city, have a number of facilities The identification of each park and green space in one of the above categories and features and hold neighbourhood events. They include Mayfield Park, is then linked to the Southampton quality standards being set for each type (see Riverside Park, St James’ Park, Mansel Park next section on standards). As part of the ongoing quality audit there will be an assessment of where green spaces sit within each type and the aim of the strategy • Local Parks - used by the local community, with limited facilities. They include is to generate a positive upward direction of travel for the green spaces, local parks Queens Park, Town Quay and Cuckoo Lane, Olive Road Rec, Aldermoor Road, Bakers become better local parks or even district parks and onwards up to city park status. Drove, Millbrook Rec, Green Park, Redbridge Wharf, Cedar Lodge, Shirley Pond, Areas of under provision for certain types of green space will be targeted to identify Freshfield Road, Freemantle Lake Park, Little Mongers Park, Mount Pleasant, Lawn opportunities for upgrading appropriate sites to increase the quality and facilities Road, Portswood Rec, Daisy Dip, Mansbridge, Octavia Road, Donkey Common to enable greater access in areas of under provision, for example where there is an Frogs Copse, Deep Dene, Bitterne Manor, Northam Bridge Parks, Hum Hole, Sports over provision of amenity green space, it may be appropriate to look at upgrading Zone Local Park, Freemantle Common, Veracity Ground, Peartree Green, Archery this to local park status to ensure there is enough provision of this type of green Rec, Butts Road Rec, Sullivan Road Rec, Hinkler Green, Abbey Hill, Northam space. Also where the environment around a green space changes, the hierarchy Doorstep Green, Blechynden Park, Platform Park, Chessel Bay, Thornhill Park gives scope for green space to move upwards, for instance if a significant amount of redevelopment occurs next to a local park it may be appropriate to upgrade • Amenity Green Space – Used by the immediate local community this green this park to a district park. The hierarchy will therefore be one of the key ways of space usually connects to or is adjacent to the homes of the residents using it. - prioritising green space for funding that is extra to the revenue provided by the Major areas of Amenity Green Space include; Harefield Estate, Thornhill Estate, Council (ie planning obligations, grant bids). 17

Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality 5. Southampton Standards

The Council is currently custodian of green space that makes up around 20% of the total area of the city. This land is free for all to use and it is therefore very important that we get local standards right to ensure we can maintain and protect them for future generations. Local standards enable us to do this by giving a base level to work to for accessibility, quantity, quality and protection that ensures all green spaces are suitable for their purpose, improved regularly and appropriately funded. The standards are used in conjunction with each other to build a picture of a particular green space and to show where it needs improvement.

It is proposed to use the standards presented on the next few pages when assessing green spaces in relation to the hierarchy. They reflect the uniqueness of Southampton and therefore do not rely on more broad brush national standards. It is proposed that over the next 3 to 5 years that they are aligned with and adopted into the emerging LDF following the appropriate public consultation. In the mean time they will be used to help improve the Neighbourhood Services Division service and to prioritise parks and green spaces for improvement. Accessibility

There are three themes to accessibility; ease of access when travelling to the green space, physical access onto the green space and a more general aspiration to provide an equality of use for all members of society.

As a standard has to be measurable it is only appropriate to set standards for 18 travelling to and physical access to green spaces.

Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality Travel access

The usual way of travelling to green spaces, and in particular local green spaces, is by walking (this term is used in a broad sense and includes using wheelchairs Natural/Semi Natural Wildlife areas and other walking aids). A distance standard is therefore There should be at least one accessible 20ha site within 2km of home proposed based on reasonable walking distances from There should be one accessible 100ha site within 5km home to some of the green space types. The distance There should be one accessible 500ha site within 10km is an average making allowance for all abilities and therefore has been set at 300m distance for 5 minutes walk. The diagram shows the target walking distances for different types of green spaces and can be used to establish whether there is enough of any particular type in your area. However, it does not allow for housing densities, population levels or major barriers (ie railways Allotments 30mins walk and rivers) and these will need to be considered when looking at provision for a particular area. City Park 20mins walk

District Park 10mins walk

Local Park 5mins

Amenity Green Space 1min 19 200m 400m 600m 800m 1000m 1200m 1400m 1600m 1800m2000m Walking Distance (m) Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality The overriding principle is one of “Least Restrictive Access” to outdoor spaces Physical access on site which helps raise the standard of access overtime. Green space access will be categorised following the principles set down in Appendix 1 of the Sensory Trust Physical access to and within a site is important and has been based on the document. Where full accessibility is not available (ie because of steep slopes in Sensory Trust guideline “By all reasonable means: inclusive access to the outdoors river valleys or because of sensitive nature conservation areas) over a whole site for disabled people”. These guidelines deal principally with paths and routes and it is generally accepted that fully accessible “honey pot” areas are appropriate to are defined primarily in terms of physical access, and predominantly in relation to enable an appreciation of the site. people with mobility impairments.

Table 2 of the Sensory Trust guideline “By all reasonable means: inclusive access to the outdoors for disabled people” is summarised below: Standard Definition

Ideal Includes standards such as: No physical barriers, non-slip well drained hard paths, no surface breaks, Path gradients less than 1:20, passing places eat least every 50m, resting places every 100m Zone A Provides access for most Includes standards such as: No steps higher than 15mm, some loose stones in footpath, paths at least 1m wide, path gradient no more people, especially those than 1:10, passing places every 150m, resting places every 150m. Zone A – City Park, some District Parks, Sports with mobility impairments Zone B Provides access for many Includes standards such as: No steps higher than 40mm, some stones, occasional tree roots, potholes and short stretches of rutting on people, especially those paths, paths at least 900mm wide, path gradient no more than 1:10, passing places not formalised but at least one passing opportunity with mobility impairments every 150m, resting places at least every 1000m. Zone B – District Park, Some Local Parks, Some Sports, cemeteries and Churchyards Zone C Provides access for some Includes standards such as: No steps higher than 100mm, larger loose stones, occasional tree roots potholes and short stretches of people, especially those rutting on paths, paths at least 900mm wide, natural gradients not limited, passing places not formalised but should be at least one with mobility impairments passing opportunity every 150m, resting places not formalised. Zone C – Local Park, Amenity Green Space, Woodlands and Nature areas, 20 Allotments, some cemeteries and churchyards.

Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality Quantity Standard

There is little opportunity to increase green space in Southampton. A very small amount of new green space may become available through development of some of the brown field sites, but generally there are no areas where new green space can be provided. The proposed quantity standards are therefore based on the current local provision of green space and could be used to ensure there is no loss in the future.

Natural/Semi Natural Wildlife areas* 1.75

All Outdoor Sports Provision, excluding Golf 1.0

Formal parks and gardens (City Park*, 0.42 District Park*, Local Park*)

Amenity Green Space* 0.22

Allotments* or Cemeteries 0.2

00.2 0.400.6 .8 1 1.2 1.4 1.6 1.8 Proposed Local Standard (Hectares per 1000 population) 21 *Green Space types that constitute ‘amenity open space’ in the Southampton City Council supplementary planning guidance for Planning Obligations.

Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality Quality Standard

The Green Flag Award scheme helps to drive up For example it would be expected that a local park when audited would get a score of at least 40, however, it could get a score of up to 100 and be an outstanding standards and raises people’s expectations. The award quality local park. If it scores less than 40 then it would be prioritised for criteria concentrate on what makes a really great park: improvement to ensure that it does reach that score. somewhere that feels welcoming, safe and uplifting and which involves the local community in the life of their park

A quality standard has been proposed that adopts the main Green Flag Award City Park criteria as its basis. This would therefore be an audit that not only assesses facilities but also includes such criteria as, access, feeling welcome and enhancing biodiversity. It could be used to assess the quality of green spaces across the city. Each green space would be allocated a minimum score that it should obtain for its District Park type. The audited parks and green spaces will be reviewed against the standard for that type of site and this will help form the basis for targeting future resource allocation for improvements. For full details on the criteria within the quality standard please see the technical document. The highest score obtainable is 100. Local Park

Amenity Green Space, Allotments Woodlands and Natural, Cemeteries, All Outdoor Sports Provision, excluding Golf

22 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 Quality Score required to meet the standard Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality Protection grades Level Definition

Southampton City Council is committed to providing Protect This is green space that is viewed as so vital to the life of the town’s residents that 16300 new homes by 2026, not all of which will have it should be protected from all development, except where the proposal is for the their own gardens. This places increased pressure direct improvement of the site for its management (ie operational buildings) or on green spaces not only due to their increased use, community use (ie interpretation centre, toilets). For example City, District and Local particularly by those with no gardens, but also as areas Parks, woodlands and nature areas, some sports. most allotments with potential for development. Although the Local Plan Replace The total area currently set aside as this green space type is desirable to keep, Review does currently protect a number of sites under but its distribution across the city or area is not optimised. Development of this planning policy CLT3, it does not protect all green space. type of green space (either to provide a different type of green space or in some In addition to this it does not address the issue of poor cases as built development) would be allowed where it is over provided. Where quality under used space. As part of this action plan it is built development is allowed it would be with the condition that the green proposed that a protection rating for all parks and green space is replaced (by the developer) by similar provision in an area where it is underprovided. For example some amenity green space, some sports, some spaces is developed along the lines of the following allotments table. This will ensure that all green spaces are valued and the most important spaces have the highest levels of Reconfigure This is green space which is currently fragmented, for example in housing estates. protection. This will safeguard the future of a significant These could be built on where redevelopment or regeneration of the area would number of green spaces, however it also provides enable this type of green space to be reconfigured to give larger areas of continuous scope for dialogues to take place over pieces of amenity land and improve its quality for recreational purposes and ease of management. green space that have low amenity value and that may There could be some loss of total area to ensure the quality of the retained green space. For example some amenity green space be suitable for either conversion into a different type of green space or for development that could generate Convert Green Space which has low quality and low use and therefore is of little amenity value. income to improve other green spaces and/or other This type of green space could be considered for alternative uses such as a different improvements for the local area. The protection levels green space type or could be developed to generate income to improve other nearby proposed will underpin the policies being taken forward green spaces following public consultation. For example some highways verges in the LDF. 23

Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality In the meantime a review of the cost per metre squared for park improvements is Planning obligations and green spaces being undertaken. These more accurate costs will be used to update the existing Planning Obligations. The Green Space Strategy will assist planners as an evidence base when deciding planning applications to ensure that the amount of green space in an area is kept It is important that new development does not significantly impact on the green within local standards. The strategy will inform them of the protection level of any space. The strategy will therefore seek to address this issue by getting larger new given green space and enable them to make appropriate decisions on proposed developments to include green space within their design. It will therefore be development in these areas. an aspiration to have a policy within the Planning Obligations SPD for all new developments with a net increase in the population of 1000 or more to provide, It is generally accepted that there is little opportunity for significant new green where appropriate, on site green space. For example where local green space has space within Southampton outside of development sites therefore developers will capacity for sustaining a population increase then an off site contribution maybe be encouraged to provide on-site provision wherever possible. However, quality considered, however, where local green space is unable to sustain any further should not be reduced just to provide quantity and where the only green space population increase then on site provision would be expected. Any on site provision that can be provided on site is to non-adoptable standard the Council will seek to will be laid out at the expense of the developer and in most cases adopted by the secure financial contributions to improve local and city wide green space for use by Local Authority. On adoption a commuted sum will be payable for maintenance the new residents. based on a period of 10 years. However as stated above this will need to go through the Development Control DPD process before it can be adopted and will have no The intention is to seek approval of the local standards and green space legal weight before this time. categorisations in order for them to be adopted in a policy within the emerging LDF. The Supplementary Planning Document for Planning Obligations will outline Where a contribution is made towards off site provision, money will be allocated the contributions that developers must make when carrying out developments to the nearest green space, from an agreed list, in need of improvement and in the city. Current standards based on previous Local Plans and the Hampshire a proportion may go towards improving the network of district and city parks Structure Plan will remain in place until the Development Control document is depending on the size and location of the development. The Green Space Strategy adopted this is likely to be in 2012, It is the intention of this document to work action plan outlines where priorities for improvement will be in the short term and closely with Planning Policy to ensure that new standards are adopted through the a quality assessment in the medium term will enable further prioritisation. (In the Development Control DPD process. meantime allocation of the contribution will be determined on a case by case basis.)

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Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality 6. Action plan

The Southampton Green Space Strategy Consultation Draft was widely circulated infrastructure – despite the increase in satisfaction levels. It is a fantastic “Green for consultation with the public in June 2008. The consultation was in the form of City” with a good spread of quality parks and green spaces across the city and we a questionnaire attached to the document and made available on the Council web are keen to make sure this continues for future generations. The early priorities for site. The feedback from the consultation was on the whole very positive with no improvements are outlined below and we will continue to consult with the public major issues raised from any of the respondents. Respondents clearly value green to ensure their views are taken into consideration. spaces and see them as a key asset for the city. The following recommendations will ensure that the aims and objectives of this As part of the consultation people were asked to prioritise their top five action plan can be achieved. They will be delivered by working with key stakeholders recommendations from a list of twenty. As a result the twenty recommendations such as Planning, Play Services, Youth Services, Rights of Way Team, parks and within the consultation draft have been refined into the following action plan, green space users and other groups involved in shaping parks and green spaces. giving 10 objectives, each with detailed actions. The objectives reflect the five aims of this strategy and ensure their implementation over the next 5 years. The remaining recommendations from the consultation document have been incorporated into the Technical Document.

The contribution that well managed parks and green spaces make to the overall streetscene of Southampton, to the well-being of residents and visitors, and their value in developing the local economy has been explained in this document. This action plan, in conjunction with the technical document, is part of the ongoing dialogue in developing a much more detailed and long term vision for Southampton’s parks and green spaces. The aim of this publication is to establish the basis for decision making over the next 1-5 years. Southampton is very lucky to have had a network of great green spaces right across and into the heart of the city for well over 150 years but recently the trend has been for a reduced level of resources leading to a decline in some of the parks and green spaces 25

Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality i. To provide a network of high quality green spaces contributing to a unique sense of place

1 Quality audit all parks to identify gaps and highlight areas for improvement

Ref Actions Benefits Measures of Success and Timescales Financial and Other Resources

1.1 Develop and carry out a quality audit Gaps in provision will be indentified 49 parks complete by 2010 Funding required to employ of all parks and green spaces based on and areas in need of improvement consultant to carry out audits. Green Flag criteria highlighted. Information will feed All other green space complete by into individual management plans 2012 Project management 1.2 Use audit data to assess what investment Clear understanding of what Detailed breakdown of funding will be required over the next 15 to 20 resources will be required in order to required to; years in order to sustain and improve sustain and improve green space. • sustain green spaces for the next 20 green spaces years by 2013 • improve green spaces over the next 20 years by 2013 1.3 Use audit data to prioritise parks and When funds are made available A parks prioritisation list is developed green space for allocation of future we know where they can be by 2011 funds. most effectively spent to achieve A green space prioritisation list is improvement in quality developed by 2013 1.4 Produce a map identifying potential We will have a clear indication of First draft by 2009 amenity green space for alternative land where there is surplus, low quality use, based on its quantity and quality. green space that can be changed to Full map on the corporate (Alternative use as green space will be a different land use. Green space will geographical information system top priority, built development will be be fully utilised. (GIS) by 2013 considered where it will improve an area and/or can generate funds for reinvestment/maintenance of other green space. Public consultation will be 26 undertaken before any green space is used for alternative purposes.)

Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality i. To provide a network of high quality green spaces contributing to a unique sense of place

2 Target 5 key parks and green spaces to improve over the next 1-3 years to improve distribution of higher quality spaces (Action 1)

Ref Actions Benefits Measures of Success and Timescales Financial and Other Resources

2.1 St James’ Park will be improved Greatly improved park for local Parks for People lottery bid result in Parks for People bid for £1.1m (total through capital funding, increased residents and visitors in an area of October 2008. project £1.5m with £190k + match community involvement and Parks the city with otherwise limited park funding) for People Lottery funding grant (if facilities. If successful implemented successful) improvements by 2011

Obtain Green Flag by 2011

2.2 Riverside Park, Portswood Park Local residents and visitors to the Riverside Park will maintain its Green Riverside, Section 106 – tennis court (recreation ground), and Weston north and east of the city will have Flag Award status annually and capital for Cafe Shore will be improved through much improved facilities to use capital funding, increased community Portswood Park will obtain Green Portswood, Sita - Grant £10k involvement and other external Flag Award status by 2011 grants. Weston Shore will obtain Green Flag Weston Shore – Local Area Award status by 2010 Agreement capital

2.3 The Southampton Common will be Local residents and visitors to the Maintain Green Flag Award status Section 106 improved through capital funding; centre of the city will have much annually Forestry Grant joint working with Natural England improved facilities to use LAA Grant will be undertaken to enhance the SSSI. Obtain Favourable Status for SSSI by 2012 27

Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality i. To provide a network of high quality green spaces contributing to a unique sense of place

3 To Improve 15 parks and green spaces through targeted use of developer contributions. (Action 2)

Ref Actions Benefits Measures of Success and Timescales Financial and Other Resources

3.1 Compile list of 15 top priority green Ensure that improvements are List is produced by 2009 Officer Time spaces for improvement based on targeted to areas with funding funding availability and need. allocated. 3.2 Carry out improvements to 15 green Residents will have better green 15 green spaces will have improved Section 106 spaces by instigating projects for space facilities within close walking facilities by 2011 Capital money each. distance to them

i. To provide a network of high quality green spaces contributing to a unique sense of place

4 To produce management plans for key parks and green spaces. (Action 5)

Ref Actions Benefits Measures of Success and Timescales Financial and Other Resources

4.1 Produce management plans for 5 City The aims and objectives for the Publish management plans by 2010 Possibly outsource to consultancy Parks and 4 District parks plus 20% parks will be outlined and actions of the local parks, (This includes the identified for the next 5-10 years. Will re-writing of the 20 year Common also assist in Green Flag applications Management and Maintenance Plan.) 28

Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality ii. To promote active community involvement and improved access for citizens and visitors

5 To ensure people continue to feel safe in our parks. (Action 7)

Ref Actions Benefits Measures of Success and Timescales Financial and Other Resources

5.1 Develop a range of safety Improve perception of safety in parks Two park watch schemes set up by Staff to support park watch groups improvements for example park and encourage more people to use 2012 for administration and attending watch schemes (council staff, police, parks meetings. community support officers and friends groups sign up to increase visibility in the parks)

5.2 Implement 'safer by design' More people use and feel safe in the Perception of safety improves (on site Capital for shrub bed modifications modifications to shrub beds, borders parks. user surveys) and lighting improvements and lighting where appropriate. Staff or consultants to carry out site user surveys

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Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality ii. To promote active community involvement and improved access for citizens and visitors

6 To improve the quality of green spaces by getting local communities actively involved. (Action 12)

Ref Actions Benefits Measures of Success and Timescales Financial and Other Resources

6.1 Increase the number of Friends Local people involved in shaping Friends group in place for at least 15 Staff time to support friends groups. groups across Southampton the future of their green space, green spaces by 2012. promoting a sense of ownership and Financial and staff support for friends pride in the area, making them more groups to hold events. sustainable.

6.2 Establish and adopt a methodology Green space improvement projects A methodology is produced and for consulting with all user groups will be better informed and designed adopted by 2013 including young people, older by consulting with a wide range of people, access groups and minority groups. groups

6.3 Promote the use of GreenSTAT to Improve customer feedback on the Increased use of GreenSTAT by 2009 Ongoing funding for GreenSTAT encourage more online feedback parks service and individual parks. licence (approx. £4,000 pa).

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Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality ii. To promote active community involvement and improved access for citizens and visitors

7 To clarify certain legal issues relating to green spaces (General)

Ref Actions Benefits Measures of Success and Timescales Financial and Other Resources

7.1 To produce proposals for public This will make the position with A proposal following The Dog Control consultation following the Clean regards to dog control clear to park Orders (Procedures) Regulations Neighbourhoods and Environment users. On the spot enforcement 2006 is ready for public consultation Act 2005 on areas within green where owners act irresponsibly and/ by 2010 spaces where it is appropriate to or allow their dogs to become out of promote greater control of dogs control. 7.2 To produce proposals for public Clarify the situation with regards to Proposals produced by 2010 consultation to clarify areas within cycling in green spaces and ensure green spaces where it is appropriate that the public are aware of where it to allow cycling for leisure and is appropriate to cycle. cycling for commuting.

7.3 To clarify and register all green It will clarify SCC ownership of green All green space is registered by 2013 Capital available spaces owned by SCC and to space and ensure it is retained in enforce, where appropriate, where public ownership. Encroachments are successfully adjacent property boundaries have enforced and green space is returned encroached. to public use

7.4 To investigate and provide solutions Reduce damage to green spaces and Viable solutions to restrict motorcycle to reduce the ability of people to take its biodiversity and make users feel use are trialled by 2012 motorbikes onto green spaces. safer. 31

Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality ii. To promote active community involvement and improved access for citizens and visitors

7 To clarify certain legal issues relating to green spaces (General)

Ref Actions Benefits Measures of Success and Timescales Financial and Other Resources

7.5 To investigate and provide solutions Green spaces become cleaner, Reduce number of incidents city wide LAA funding to reduce fly-tipping on green spaces. increased satisfaction with by 20% by 2010 cleanliness. Possible financial reward if LAA stretch targets are met.

7.6 To prepare proposals for public This will clarify to the public what Proposals are produced by 2013 consultation identifying which local restrictions there are in green spaces byelaws, for green spaces, need and will provide a realistic fine for updating. enforcement purposes.

7.7 To review the green spaces which This will reduce the risk of Solutions are implemented on 5 sites Capital funding are most at risk from traveller travellers using public open space by 2011 encampments, and implement on for encampments. It will reduce site solutions public spending on getting such encampments evicted.

7.8 Use the evidence gathered above to This will be an easy to read document Booklet in general circulation by 2013 produce a “Respect Southampton’s clarifying what restrictions there Green Spaces” guide. are in green spaces and giving clear guidance for users on responsible use of green space. 32

Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality iii. To establish the contribution parks make in developing the city economy and cultural opportunities

8 To inform future planning policy on the provision of green space. (General)

Ref Actions Benefits Measures of Success and Timescales Financial and Other Resources

8.1 Update Planning Obligations Developers will have a clear Commence process in 2009, and the Supplementary Planning Guidance to indication of the amount of green amenity Open Space section of the reflect the evidence shown within the space they need to provide or the Planning Obligations SPG is re- Green Space Strategy. financial contribution they will written by 2012 need to make in its place. Planners will have robust evidence to base section 106 agreements on. New developments in the city should impact less on the existing green space.

8.2 The Green Space Strategy is aligned It will provide robust evidence for the Evidence incorporated into the LDF by with and maintained as an evidence LDF and provide more accurate data 2013 base which feeds into the Local to base policy on. Development Framework (LDF) guiding policy.

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Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality iv. To achieve attractive and sustainable green spaces in the city

9 To establish a Green Grid network linking key green spaces and providing ‘green routes’ for people and wildlife. (Action 17)

Actions Benefits Measures of Success and Timescales Financial and Other Resources

9.1 Produce a map showing all the The map will be used to identify gaps Map produced in GIS by 2011 Surveys, rerouting services, existing green links between and routes that need to be developed highways input, Section 106 planning strategic green spaces, for wildlife, to ensure a green grid within the city obligations walking and cycling. (Taking into and into wider region consideration the green travel plan, the ROWIP, the active travel plan, cycle routes plan, etc.) 9.2 Prioritise the key routes to develop/ Enables effective spending of funds A priority list of key routes, Surveys, rerouting services, improve e.g. Itchen Navigation, when available highlighted on the map, produced by highways input, Section 106 planning Monks Brook, Weston to Thornhill. 2012 obligations

9.3 Create Green Grid Implementation Having established existing routes Green grid implementation plan is Surveys, rerouting services, Plan to include funding, highways the implementation plan will focus produced by 2013 highways input, Section 106 planning issues, private land use, tree on reducing gaps obligations planting, tree protection etc in order to fully establish green grid

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Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality v. To maximise value for money and resources available

10 To ensure that high quality green spaces continue to be well maintained in the future. (Action 18)

Actions Benefits Measures of Success and Timescales Financial and Other Resources

10.1 Invest in ongoing horticultural A highly trained, more motivated and Improved age profile of workforce by Project management training for Open Spaces staff and knowledgeable work force. Retain 2011 explore new ways of attracting young more quality staff, more trainees Training budget people to a career in horticulture. interested in working at Southampton Increase number of NVQ’s and work placements

10.2 Review service promises and apply Cleaner, safer, greener green spaces. Service promises document available them across the City green space by end 2009. provision, with a view to improving grounds maintenance, focussing on the basics of grass cutting, litter, fly tipping and dog fouling.

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Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality 36

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BA N A 9 E ROAD

A IDG O E BR

L T ANS 52 R M D N 8 8

HARE Weston Shore Westwood E A A

G D FI L D D O ELD 30

I A R X O R B

R ROA SE O B I LL R D T U D D S

D F MA E D K HORN T A E OANH A R U Y W O TE OWR Y G FIELD ROAD MAY O O

R L N BRLL OL F N R R H R

I NHI I

F WWE X H V O R I I 6 D H

O LL ELD E BRO L A W

P O C R RD R G O

S S I S UPPER ES O

R G I H

R T D O U B

Y M 54

A M27 M

O

TO F R

7 D W WINCHESTER ROAD R IELD ROAD I AY

B L

D A O R

FROG O OADLANDS ROAD L MO R M RE PAL

A L

G A

D E RA 10 N N Allotments V B

Y G E RIV D E O RO S 8 D V 5 L ASTER RD R A E L E C D I ROAD N D O H A R N A S T L S E S D A O ES RE R G U FO L R BUR S N I O R H E D M F AD Y A S O E V E U X D R H R G OR L I A B O OXF G R T ROM C C L O G A H Y AD E U 1 E Aldermoor Leisure Gardens F V 6 S C E IE L N D O E L T LA D A N L R N 14 D A E S A A O W A EY R A V R E D THE AVENUE THE A E H V R O N O E 2 D Athelstan Road G R U O N W E O U O D D

C E R A 27 O AD D M H O R

W

A I

F U L ROWNHAM REN

M S X

O R L

A T D 3

O R C Bangor Road

N W A L W R H S C E D A E A DA LB O AVE L E O R N

L A A C N H K A

A P E E R D O L A V O I 3 N E ROAD 0 E E I L 3 R R NUE M N M S 5 E G R R O E L H U 33 4 N W

E E R Bitterne I E T D 16 R G M D L O N W T H R A R 2 D A R K F S O A AD O T I VE Y N E V A L C O L A H L ROAD N E A O A A F E R E D R W N O D L PE N R E IN R L W E Y I O R D E A N HA 5 R

U S C T R Borrowdale

E D N R S

S O G

R C I RNW L E A G

R E O L

R U L M N C

E E R H R W R

S R I O O

E N C A A L E O D R O F A SB

O

N T I

I E D M A E E L

N M H

W W O

A D 7 S

N T H 6

G V S G D Broadlands Road

IL I

M 21 I A E A E F G

T H N L R

T

L Y H A M S E U ON E T

D R I E S N H

R B N E R EL L O ET L T O E S O M K O H D O S ROAD A A R

L T O R C

P OKE O R 7 D D A KVA L A B Coxford T D E OTL T I EY

H RO M S F AD

N S I H

C A A OO P E W T E OAK I D M R M L L

18 D V OUNT A BR I A S K D A O EN T O A N O A R 8 R V 8 D H E Hollybrook R O C R O E Y 3 U I T R A L 53 I R S R D E MOND E T L

R CH D O F L D

L E DBRI N H D A GE HILL WI A W E A E S A I

E R

S O B F O T D I R R M T 9

R E D E N O T S R Langhorn Road

V J I

O A K A H A N

5 A

A K E R I H V O A

M L D M

M A L E E

I R N

L

O D W N E E

S S S

R T E E I A A

O H R D T 18 K L

M E D E A S

S S D NY L O E

E N

12 R W

Y

L S L R W E R E E D

O R

A L O O

D Y

D 10 R Y N

A

N G E

B D V

D Muddy Bottom O

E O S D A

O R V

T N A

D A

D

O V T

E A

A W U A A O

W R A

R A

E S

O D D A B R

R O R I L

L T D N G

D RO L D

N TRE N

R O L H A R

A R N I

S I G O

O T A P D T L O H 11 A W V A T D H Oakley Road

P E A U H

N D A K A D E W I

C N R L W O B

N N R O A

O E ON D R M G Y L E E I O

S Y O W

U R B E L D M U E

E P R A L A A T O A L R A E G O L

O H O O 23

ANL H E U E W W N R CHUR T E D M IM A E E 34 12

I W C O

S O ER N B Paignton Road

G D T V O U W T O

V M A K A N S

E E W R K S A B E

U C

R B D R E R D H O

O CU D O

A N E N W

A R R Y O L R O N

O E O

D A R A D T D

U A L A

B O D V L A R H

D Y S E N D

N O R N R ST DENYS TE A

I VENUE E S 13 E Y B E O W V Radcliffe Road O

A T E

E G R

W D

E

Y A

T

E U O M

R R

B N A E Y

R M 26 A

C Y O N L I

OA D I N R

KL M OA E H S

P A L T 14 E Y R O E Rownhams Road SHIRLE

R A Y OA O LMA AD EH A

C A D A S

UMB N W D OU D RIA 51 M T

N C I A

O L V D AMBRIDGE AV E E

HUL M T Y

R 15 R R

E H 17 O D R R A

O Y D

A B A E A A A 2 15 1 W W S S E Sandhurst Road

E R H D 7 S H D E O U I A N

D LL I I

A G I D R R A M C M L E R V AD L E A S E O

L L O B G E OAD R E ID R P E E Y R

G U N K BU O

R O D A L B S S Y RO O U A E L D R M D E N T A T R E C D O H U 16 U U A R O E E D Shirley Ponds H I N U E REDBRIDGE E N N G ON B V E 11 N D E E D S N A I U E H E E N A E L A A R T N L N A A O N U L V V T

D A S O BITTERNE D E R JA R N N 17 A T D L S A E R N I N R V E D

35 Y R L E O L D A O

I V

U A S E D S R A

A M D E A D A 17 S O F N W FO Southwells Farm E O E R R S T N A E A R A E W R T E ERNE RD WE N N E E S O B G A D T O BITT ST L R IT D R T E H IS E O CHER U R R S D U A E

O H I Y N A L K S L N 14 B E G U R H M

E W A N R T A O O O Y E A A D

T G S O

5 E N U H P 3 L B D S A B O L O

A G D S E R N 18 H I D E A Studland Road E 37 O E C RY T R A R N G M T R V W E N L S A

N RD GREVILLE

K A O E O M O I E T LAN Y STAN R 50 N T L M N M K A E S S GARFIELD RD W A U O P DL N C V 19 C E ID Swaythling D 36 E D E A M O TS A L A

R O A N R L N D E E O

T A C E G O O 19 R 'S R 25 E ROV A H G S N ILL R R E

E T

H 31 34 20 H 3 V C A Sydney House A R E

A E D N A

3 O ORNHILL PARK RO A TH

L L 0 E

R E S ST NT OAD EA

2 N BITTERNE R

N TO T

4 G R S E

OCK 4 A

A

R

C

I 2

L 3 N

M

D

I F AR 0 S 21

L E Vinery Gardens

L W 3

E

B O R

R S

A O H R

O

O

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C 21 D A

R D ANGEL D O O A A D A VENUE B T D WILTON A O O

H O H E 23 R 22 I R B Weston D R R A D D R A R O AVE H 22 O V E W T D R E F M N D S S O A A U WNL M T H O O E A E A B R HA

A D N D T HERLEY ROAD ROAD HERLEY A O I T H R RO R R 2 N U NO

W R A O

RICHMOND E T PPER L S S D 31 2 C

W 13 A 23 E AT AD R

E T O E K Witts Hill

P Y R D P

N A O R D O A

C R Y R R 1 E E

DG L A N N N U O R P A K A E Y 4 O A R P D A E

P L R O U D N T B 16 R A MBE D S

C

R

O D O R E A H E E 20 A D D A GR F I AHAM RD O D O D D S L N F 15 R R I R T A L 38 N O L O O YR L M O Y B C R B A A D M

W R U AT D A S E 2 R Y R LO R E O 7 R S 32 T O I MILLBROOK A D R M H A D O

B W T O D A

L B O P M D V R N RO N R IL E I O L A S N C

L B W

R R T T A PALMERS E O B OK RO BE O D AD A A A EAST A N 3 M N S Y R D 0 U R RO 47 20 2 C E A 4 S M W D D T S D O OA T A R R L O R 10 T U IA D O A N C E ROAD N 3 A T 24 R R 0 E E BA DEN TERR M K 2 T 46 YN AC T 4 W T ECH E M A B T E BL O O U I N C Y R N H W S A R L C IN D Y R E R KL A E D ER RO O E AD M D 1 W RO River Itchen E N S River Test NE U A R C O E N O NT E R A SOUTHAMPTON D 3 V W K A G

I N 7 A N E I D D R CENTRAL G E R A A R P O B S 39 T S R O W S U R R T T S S A A A R N Y M E E D T H

P P L H O A HO ING ARY S R O D OA T J O O A D N W SOUTH ST O R T TREE RD S R R R R POUND G O S T E E LIN O

T HO S N S L ST M A L A T D A D E A D I A R

R N R R

O

E Y W N R

D

R

S E E H O

E T M O

W T P A N

S L D

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Z P O S A 40 H D

T R L E O T A

C Q R

A O L

U H E U A D R

N S

G

A R

C E I A S N

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R O C E N O E O

R D

O U L A D K A O R A H D

E TE

A T A D D T A W

E S H A D O O

H O L K R RO RO R L A L E D E P T C D Q N H A D S AD A E C R D P H D S P W U A S

I A O LU O T R O D I R U E O E

D G A S H R M N E L E O S

S P A O T H E I E R L N R T A T

L R V O S D B R I

A W ER D V S S T E L R M 5 E E

A P T

T A

A I N W L R U

O R R G B N

S D

A R E

H D OA N LA I R

E

Y L R

T A R D

T O

N O R P

E 4 A EL S E RAD I 6 ST A O D F B C

K D E L RO T E WOOLSTON A A E D

D E

BR C A IT THR E R O NT N S T RAL O T B 45 RI R V S DGE

ITCHEN BRIDGE Y A E A L L P B 2 O E R Y G C N

H N D E T U S ROAD A A T ION T I B D ER TAT D N O S A R O 44 E O R O B A R A A E F D O T L R R V O 12 P 49 UT A S E W D H T R AN W A C SHOLING T N U H NUTE KE B Q C CA ROA SWI R D D C UA 43 RM R H R AD O FO D O Y T PLA Y R P LE ORTS OT Parks & Open Spaces MOUTH B ROAD D POR C W R TSM AY OBELISK RO O P N U E S TH R N A E R O E OAD T C AD N W E V R R AN I O N I N L D A G O A H T E T ES L E 7 'S H W N T V ER R I P 8 S LL P C 1 12 25 38 51 O U C Central Parks L Town Quay & Cuckoo Lane L Mount Pleasant OS L Freemantle Common O Old Cemetery O E R A H G

D IL Y KEY L R 52 E 2 13 26 39 D H C Mayflower Park L Bakers Drove OS L Lawn Road OS/Rec L Veracity Ground O Lordshill Rec C A AR N E O E V A R O 30 AD W 25 IA RO T R P T O O 53 R IF 9 R 3 C Southampton Common 14 L Redbridge Wharf 27 L Portswood Rec 40 L Peartree Green O St James Churchyard SW W TSM C City Parks E O N E G O T U N R H T C H A I O T R O L V A A D 41 D E O 54 L A 4 C Sports Centre, Golf Course 15 L Green Park 28 L Daisy Dip 41 L Archery Rec O Woodmill Centre OAD B K T R SWIF H M I A E D District Parks LL R A C N A H H L 22 and Ski/Snowboard Centre 16 L Millbrook Rec 29 L Mansbridge OS 42 Jurds Lake 55 O Westwood 42 E N R TO Y ES 56 R W 7 O 56 A 5 C Weston Shore 17 L Cedar Lodge OS 30 L Octavia Road OS 43 L Platform Park O Weston Rec D L Local Parks W ROAD A UTH L SMO LA LOWFO ORT C RD HIL P E L 6 D Riverside Park 18 L Shirley Pond Rec 31 L Northam Bridge Parks 44 L Butts Road Rec RO AD N KI GSC O Other Green Spaces LER E 7 19 32 45 AV D Mansel Park L Freshfield Road OS L Northam Doorstep Green L Sullivan Road Rec 5 E DRIVE RD O F E W 8 St James Park 20 Freemantle Lake Park 33 L Frogs Copse 46 L Hinkler Green L O Allotments D L ICK O T L K ST IN O W G N E E 9 21 34 47 S S RO D Mayfield Park L Little Mongers Park L Deep Dene L Donkey Common T C N 8 O L A N E D A P R E Greenways L AR E U A AVEN E D 8 L 10 L Olive Road Rec 22 L Thornhill Park 35 L Bitterne Manor OS 48 L Abbey Hill OS E B

M

55 A

H

Public Slipways 11 23 36 49

L Aldermoor Road OS & L Chessel Bay L Sports Zone Local Park L Queens Park

Nursling Plantation 24 L Blechynden Park 37 L Hum Hole 50 O The Avenue

AB BEY HI LL

Green networks Clear standards Active involvement Increasing usage Raising quality 48 Green spaces in Southampton shown by their type when following the hierachy

38 Buffer zone around city and district parks in Southampton Buffer zones around parks and other Green space in Southampton, Allotments, Cemeteries, Schools and Civic spaces have not been included

This written information is available on request in other formats or languages. Please contact 023 8083 2857 for help. www.southampton.gov.uk/parks Version 1 Designed, printed & produced by Southampton City Council 12.07.20709