PF10

Legislation Committee No 1

Response to the consultation on the Proposed Playing Fields (Community Involvement in Disposal Decisions) (Wales) Measure

Bridgend County Borough Council

Consultation - Playing Fields Proposed Measure

I refer to the letter Rosemary Butler AM sent to a wide range of organisations in December inviting views on the proposed Playing Fields Measure.

Having consulted with colleagues that have a responsibility for such matters, it is considered that there are already sufficient safeguards within the Planning process for us to be able to satisfy the requirements of this new Measure. It is also clear that the process set out in the measure would result in an additional burden upon the authority in terms of both time and resources and against this background, it is considered that the proposed measure is not necessary.

The Planning process already deals with issues of community involvement either through the alternative allocation of surplus playing fields (eg as a result of school modernisation plans) for other uses through the preparation of the Local Development Plan, or through the statutory consultation required when individual planning applications are submitted for changes of use.

With regard to the latter, there is specific provision within the existing UDP which protects an existing recreation facility unless certain strict tests are met. These include where there is an alternative to be provided, or where there is a proven excess of supply over demand, or where the facility can be protected or enhanced by the disposal / development of a part of it. It is anticipated that a similar policy will be included in the LDP when adopted.  The LDP Evidence base has up to date information which would enable the Council to assess the likely impact of any loss of facility to comply with the requirements of the new Measure.

The planning application process which would result from any change of use of a playing field would also be subject to extensive consultation within the local community. This allows a balanced view as it clearly would set out the use the land would be put to, e.g. affordable housing, and would clearly set out any compensatory measures such as the provision of additional leisure/playing fields elsewhere.

There is also a requirement to consult with the Sports Council for Wales on any proposal to dispose of playing fields and in general terms there is a presumption against any development that would result in a net loss. The point about replacement facilities is an important one as in general terms, if a development ensures replacement facilities that are better than current ones, this fact, along with the views of the local community would be given careful consideration.

In summary, it is considered that the implications of putting the proposed provisions in place are onerous and that the proposed measure is unnecessary.

Finally, with regard to the requirement to indicate whether this authority wishes to give oral evidence to the Committee, I can confirm that it does not.

David MacGregor

Assistant Chief Executive

Corporate Development and Partnerships