REC2

Recreation Policy 2: REC2

Recreation Policy 2: Development which would adversely affect, or result in the loss of Open Space or a recreation facility that is or has the potential to be, of recreational or amenity value to the community will not be permitted except in the following circumstances:

1. where alternative provision of equivalent community benefit and of equivalent or better accessibility is made available; and
2. where there would be an overall community gain from the development, and the particular loss of the open space or recreation facility would have no significant unacceptable effect on local open space or recreation provision or on the character or amenity of the area.

10.3.6 In the case of residential developments for 10 or more dwellings, the Department proposes to adopt the following general standards (which refer to the area required per 1000 head of population):

Recreational Open Space

• Sports Pitches 1.8 ha
• Children's Play Space 0.6 ha
• Amenity Space 0.8 ha

10.3.7 These general standards will be applied having regard to the following circumstances:

1. the size, type, and particular needs of the resident population in question;
2. the needs of visitors to the area; and
3. the proximity and availability of existing Open Space, including the foreshore, public glens and parks, and school fields which may be available for public use outside of school hours.

More detail is set out in Appendix 6.

10.3.8 The Department has therefore adopted the following policy such as to plan positively for the provision of well-designed recreational and amenity space.