CPRE’s newly-launched 2023 Local Green Spaces (LGS) report shows that there has been an increase in LGS designations, but deprived communities remain under-served.
The report reveals that LGS designations have increased by 771 since 2022, most of them in northern England. In London, the total number of LGSs grew by 64%.
LGSs were introduced in 2012 to give Green Belt-like protections to smaller areas of land that are often identified by communities themselves. Since then, 7,286 LGS have been designated in total, for reasons including their recreational value, beauty and importance for wildlife.
According to the report, 81.5% of all LGS designations were made on account of an area’s recreational value, 34% on account of its importance for wildlife and 27.1% on account of its beauty. The mapping shows that many LGSs are found on the margins of Common Land, Local Nature Reserves and Sites of Specific Scientific Interest, demonstrating their value in expanding protected areas and connecting important habitats.
Deprived areas still lacking
While LGS designations have increased in deprived areas, CPRE mapping reveals that a strong correlation persists between deprivation and lack of green space.
Engagement with neighbourhood planning may not be a priority for people facing poor housing, low incomes and barriers to accessing healthcare and other essential services. Organisations must work together to address these pressures and create capacity for wider environmental issues.
Brad Taylor, lead author on the report, said: ‘Communities with high levels of deprivation need to have their voices heard and their Local Green Spaces protected. People must be empowered to engage in the local and neighbourhood planning process that can secure LGS designations. Our green spaces are there for everyone to enjoy – everyone needs to be involved in deciding how to protect them.’
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Posted On: 16/10/2023