Havant Borough Council > Planning and Environment > Planning > Planning Policy > Local Development Framework > Saved Policies from the old Local Plan > Saved Policies from the Havant Borough District Wide Local Plan

345. The policies in this chapter allow a range of recreational development while safeguarding the countryside, coast and open spaces. The policies are concerned with maintaining environmental quality, access to playing fields, provision of new open space, access to sport and recreation in the urban fringe, coastal recreation, leisure routes and the protection of open spaces where they can contribute to the quality of life.

R1 COUNTRYSIDE AND COASTAL RECREATION DEVELOPMENT

Recreation development in countryside and coastal areas will be permitted provided:

(i) the proposal takes into account the possibility of integration with other existing or potential recreational development;

(ii) on the coast, public access to the shore is provided where practicable; and

(iii) recreational activities do not adversely affect the character and appearance of the countryside and coast, or cause harm to nature conservation interests.

346. This policy caters for the continued enjoyment of the varied coastal, countryside and urban fringe areas. Integration of attractions adds to their leisure value, especially where they are complementary or linked in a sequence, for example the green chains (See policy R13 Environmental Qualities of Open Space). Access, parking and leisure buildings also need to be integrated to improve sustainability and reduce intrusion into the countryside. The environment of the countryside and coast is an attraction in its own right and it is therefore essential to ensure that recreational development is limited to an appropriate level so that the landscape qualities are not diminished.

R2 PROTECTION OF THE STAUNTON COUNTRY PARK

Development will only be permitted which maintains and enhances the Country Park without harming its appearance and historic character.

347. The Country Park is a popular place to visit because of its historical associations and the attractive parkland, ancient woodland and rolling landscape. This distinctive character would be destroyed by development which does not take account of the sense of place and its relationship with recreation.

R3 RECREATION PROVISION AT CAMPDOWN

Planning permission will be granted for active and passive recreation either as a comprehensive development or alternatively as a series of co-ordinated but incremental proposals. Developments will be considered which include sports pitches, other open space, footpaths and cycle routes.

Part of the site should be reserved to accommodate deficiencies identified in assessments of open space supply and demand and to replace losses resulting from development within the urban areas.

Development on the site should be sited and designed to achieve all the following requirements:

(i) minimise visual intrusion into the Havant Gap and to ensure that the majority of the site retains a feeling of openness;

(ii) ensure that the continuity of open land is maintained through the Havant Gap; and

(iii) safeguard views across the site and of the surrounding landscape.

Routes for pedestrians and cycles should connect with existing and planned provision as well as connecting viewpoints and other places of interest within the site.

Vehicular access should be provided from College Road near Athena Avenue.

The archaeological value of the site should be fully protected from the effects of development, including the alignment of the Roman Road, and interpreted and displayed as a part of the leisure attractions of the site.

Flood lighting should be effectively controlled near the A3(M) and also to avoid disturbance to local residents.

Where possible linked habitats should be funded from commercial developments to enhance the area as publicly accessible and biodiverse countryside.

348. This proposal has emerged from the Borough Regeneration Strategy following consultation with the local community. The development can be justified strategically in terms of recreational provision, the potential for health promotion, and the accessibility of the site. The Campdown Community Facility Feasibility Report has identified a shortfall in the Borough for different types of pitches, courts and provision for athletics and field events. The site is centrally located within the Borough to provide these facilities, and any playing fields which need to be replaced or additional provision required as a result of housing development.

349. The Council is aware of a need for quality accommodation, spectator facilities and playing space for local sports clubs. The Borough has earned an excellent reputation for sporting achievements, in some cases at national level. Performance would be sustained and improved by investment at this location coupled with encouragement to all sectors of the community to participate in sport.

350. The proposed development would be accessible from the main road network and by bus. Vehicle access will be via College Road. Improved pedestrian access from Scratchface Lane and Portsdown Hill Road will be investigated along with the possibility of cycle access.

351. It is essential to retain the open landscape and to ensure as much public access as possible for enjoyment of the panoramic views. The spectator facilities and ancillary buildings will, therefore, have to be carefully sited and make the best use of existing and new planting following a comprehensive landscape appraisal of the site.

352. The proposal will be developed on the basis of a wide ranging partnership including the Borough Council, commercial interests and sports clubs. The Council is likely to seek innovative proposals for financing the scheme, including Sports Council Lottery funding. There may also be scope for providing replacement open space at this location by means of section 106 agreements.

353. Although the emphasis of the proposal is the provision for sport and active recreation, it is important to ensure that heritage and nature conservation are fully safeguarded and, as appropriate, diversify the leisure experience.

R4 EXTENSION OF CROOKHORN (CITY OF PORTSMOUTH) GOLF COURSE

Extension of the Crookhorn Golf Course on land north of Portsdown Hill will be permitted provided features of nature conservation and archaeological importance are safeguarded.

354. This proposal is compatible with the role of the Havant Gap for recreation and the extension will help to satisfy the demand for more space for playing golf while maintaining the open character of the area which is an important viewpoint over the harbours. The land between Fort Purbrook and Crookhorn Lane and east of Farlington Redoubt are Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation. The layout of the golf course should therefore ensure that this site, in particular, is effectively safeguarded.

R5 NOISY RECREATION

Recreation proposals will only be permitted where:

(i) the quietness of the countryside and residential areas would not be disturbed by noise levels which are unacceptable for residents and visitors;

(ii) traffic generation and parking would not affect road safety;

(iii) the safe use of public rights of way and open space would not be affected; and

(iv) there would be no harmful impacts on historic landscapes and nature conservation.

The Borough Council will seek suitable sites for these activities where disturbance can be minimised through co-operation with particular groups and in discussion with local residents and organisations with an interest in the proposed development. Where possible degraded or previously-developed sites outside the urban areas should be used for these types of recreation.

355. This policy applies to several activities including two and four wheel motor sports, shooting, motorised water sports, combat games (such as 'paintball') and flying model aircraft. These activities can cause disturbance to local residents and nature conservation. This is a particular problem in the Borough where open land is limited in extent and near housing areas. There are also a number of nature conservation sites which require special protection. When considering planning applications the Borough Council may decide that temporary permissions would be appropriate so that the activities could be stopped if problems arise. Although sites for noisy recreation are likely to be limited, some potential might be identified on set-aside farmland near main roads where traffic noise is a problem or where the activity can be screened by banks and trees.

R6 HORSERIDING DEVELOPMENTS

Development associated with horseriding and the stabling of horses will only be permitted where:

(i) it would not have a harmful effect on the appearance of the area and important wildlife habitats;

(ii) it would not reduce the enjoyment and safety of other users of bridleways; and

(iii) it is located near to roads which can be used safely by horseriders and is well related to bridleways and other off-road access.

356. In recent years there has been an increase in the number of pony paddocks and horse related recreation, especially in the urban fringe. Keeping horses can help to diversify recreational opportunities but the impact on the appearance of open land resulting from makeshift buildings, such as field shelters, can be a problem, especially where fields are visible from roads and housing. There is also the danger of conflict in some areas where horse-related developments would increase the use of bridleways and local roads. However, horseriders need direct access to public rights of way for safety reasons. The Borough Council has made a commitment to improve the network of riding routes in consultation with Hampshire County Council Rights of Way section and with local riders. (See Policy R19 Leisure Routes.) There is a need for more stabling for public use at an accessible location where an equestrian centre, which could be the venue for major open events, could be developed.

R7 BEACHLANDS - RECREATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

At Beachlands development will be permitted only where it is for recreational uses which would not be detrimental to the open character and wildlife interests of the area.

357. The openness and wildlife of this unique area have been identified by visitors as one of the main reasons for visiting Hayling Island. However, there may be scope for enhancing the attraction of Beachlands by suitable development which does not alter the character and biodiversity of the area.

R8 MOORINGS IN CHICHESTER AND LANGSTONE HARBOURS

Development which would result in any modification to or redistribution of moorings, marine berths or launch on demand facilities (dry berths) in the Harbours will only be permitted if there is no detriment to maritime recreation, safety of navigation or the environment of the Harbours, and no harmful effects on nature conservation within the Chichester and Langstone Harbour SSSIs, SPA, Solent Maritime SAC and Ramsar site.

358. There is currently no provision for new moorings in either Chichester or Langstone Harbours. This policy allows for development involving possible future modification or redistribution of existing moorings, marine berths or launch on demand facilities for reasons of good management, environmental benefits and the prevention of congestion.

R9 NEW SLIPWAYS AND JETTIES

The construction of new slipways and jetties will only be permitted if they do not:

(i) have a detrimental effect on nature conservation;

(ii) intrude into the natural character of the coastal landscape;

(iii) reduce the effectiveness of flood defences;

(iv) adversely affect the natural coastal processes and fishery interests; and

(v) inhibit the natural transfer of beach sediment along the shore.

New slipways will only be permitted if they do not extend into the foreshore.

359. Slipways and jetties can adversely affect the integrity of nature conservation sites and also harm the appearance of significant landscapes and seascapes. More slipways and jetties would also result in substantial increases in the use of the Harbours causing further disturbance to wildlife. The recessing of new slipways would mitigate impacts and allow some flexibility for development at acceptable locations.

360. Slipways and jetties can have significant cumulative effects on the geomorphology of the coastline. Flow patterns can be changed, in particular the deposition of suspended material. The effects on marine flora could be significant, especially if the number of slipways and jetties is increased. The greater number of craft which would be attracted to the Harbours would have further adverse effects on nature conservation. Changes in hydrology, erosion and sediment deposition also have an impact on the use of the Harbours for fishing.

361. Slipways and jetties also inhibit the natural movement of beach sediment along the shoreline. The sediment will accumulate upstream but downstream there will be a loss which may harm shoreline habitats. These changes will contribute to 'coastal squeeze' which is effectively the reduction of the intertidal zone. Changes to the geomorphology can also impact on the stability of coastal defences with consequent costs for the remedial works which would be needed.

R10 BROADMARSH SAILING CENTRE

A water-based recreational development will be permitted at the eastern side of the Broadmarsh Coastal Park near Brockhampton Lake with direct access from the existing slipway. A small scale proposal including an ancillary clubhouse (for not more than 20 boats) will be considered but the development should be primarily for water-based leisure activities in Langstone Harbour.

The development should be limited in scale, complement the character of the coastal landscape and safeguard internationally important nature conservation areas associated with its location on the edge of Langstone Harbour SSSI, SPA, SAC and Ramsar site. No dredging in the Harbour will be permitted as part of this development.

362. This policy reinforces the recreational potential of the Broadmarsh Coastal Park and is one of the limited opportunities for this type of development in the Borough. Since the existing slipway would be used the policy responds to the Langstone Harbour Management Plan which states that there should be no substantial increases in launching capacity, especially along the northern edge of the Harbour. It is likely that an appropriate assessment will be required in order to assess the potential impact on the features of the European sites of nature conservation importance (Policies NC2 and NC3). Quality of design could achieve a focus for the Coastal Park which is presently lacking. It is possible that the policy will attract private investment for either a commercial or club-related development and a 'starter club' building may be acceptable.

R11 BROADMARSH INTERPRETATION CENTRE

An Interpretation Centre will be permitted in the Broadmarsh Coastal Park near to the Farlington Marsh Nature Reserve subject to all of the following being achieved:

(i) the provision of access direct from Harts Farm Way adjacent to the existing car park;

(ii) no additional car parking being required;

(iii) the building being limited in scale and appropriate to its coastal location; and

(iv) there being no significant harmful effects on nature conservation or to the coastal landscape.

363. Although Langstone Harbour is internationally important as a wildlife site there is no interpretation for the public of nature conservation and the evolution of the coastal landscape. The centre would make a major contribution to the attractiveness of the Coastal Park and the shoreline path for visitors and would relate directly to the special characteristics of the Borough which are closely associated with its waterfront location. The existing vehicular access to the Farlington Marshes Nature Reserve, which is in the Portsmouth City area, is unsatisfactory and the only alternative is from Harts Farm Way. For this reason, the most appropriate site for the interpretation centre is at the western end of the Coastal Park.

R12 WATERLOOVILLE LEISURE CENTRE DEVELOPMENT

The development of land adjacent to the Leisure Centre will be permitted for indoor recreational facilities which complement and extend the existing provision and contribute to reducing deficiencies in the Waterlooville area.

364. The population of the Waterlooville area has increased substantially but the provision of indoor recreation space is generally poor. The site is next to the existing swimming pool and fitness centre. This means that there are economies resulting from grouping leisure provision on adjacent sites as well as advantages for users.

OPEN SPACE

365. The Borough's open space comprises children's playing space, playing fields and courts and a variety of 'other open spaces' which have a recreational value such as woodlands, land beside the Hermitage Stream and amenity space in housing areas. Open spaces are a valuable leisure resource. They enhance the appearance of the Borough, the sense of place of districts and wards and also provide habitats for wildlife. For these reasons there are strong justifications for resisting the loss of open spaces. However, the need for building, including the regeneration of run-down areas, can result in open spaces coming under pressure for development. Some open spaces are misused, underused or poorly located and it may be appropriate to develop them and replace provision at another location. For any or all of these reasons the development of open space might be justified but it is essential that the release of land is based on the strict application of criteria including evidence of surpluses and deficiencies using standards recommended by the National Playing Fields Association (NPFA) in 1992.

366. The Open Space Review is based on the NPFA Standards and assesses the provision of children's playing space (equipped and casual) for each ward and public, school/college and private playing fields and courts in each of the four districts of Havant, Waterlooville, Emsworth and Hayling Island. This study has shown that all wards have a deficiency of equipped playspace except in Battins where there is a small surplus. The provision of casual playing space varies across the Borough with some wards having substantial surpluses (Barncroft, Bondfields and Purbrook) although there are significant deficiencies in Emsworth, Hart Plain, Hayling West and St Faiths. All the districts are deficient in playing fields and courts especially Waterlooville where the shortage is almost 25 ha. The Open Space Review identifies areas which are accessible from each of the playspaces, playing fields and courts as well as greenspace (for informal recreation) and urban parks. Some open spaces are linked together to form 'green chains' which cross the urban areas to connect with the open countryside.

367. Integra Leisure Consultancy carried out a Playing Pitch Assessment for the Borough Council in 2000 based on the guidelines set down by Sport England. The conclusions of this assessment support the Open Space Review with regard to playing field requirements.

368. The aim underlying the open space policies is to secure the retention, improvement and fullest possible use of the Borough's varied open space assets. Policies are included to ensure that any changes to open spaces are beneficial and that where possible the loss of open space is compensated for effectively.

MINIMUM OPEN SPACE STANDARDS RECOMMENDED BY NPFA

CHILDREN'S PLAYING SPACE (EQUIPPED) (CASUAL)	0.25 HA/1000 POPULATION 0.45 HA/1000 POPULATION
PLAYING FIELDS AND COURTS (INCLUDING PRIVATE, SCHOOL & COLLEGE PROVISION)	1.7 HA/1000 POPULATION
TOTAL	2.4 HA/1000 POPULATION

R13 ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITIES OF OPEN SPACE

Development of open space for alternative uses will not be permitted where it would:

(i) break a sequence of open spaces which form a green chain; and/or

(ii) diminish the contribution of open space to the identity and landscape of the Borough and to local areas and wards; and/or

(iii) reduce the attractiveness of adjacent open space.

369. This policy refers to a variety of open spaces such as woodlands, commons, ornamental gardens and parks as well as playing space for children and adults. It is desirable but not a necessary condition of open space that it afford public access. The environmental qualities of open space complement its recreational use in several ways. Green chains are, or offer, the potential for walking and cycling in green surroundings and connect centres, housing areas and workplaces. However, the value of green chains does not depend entirely on several open spaces being physically connected. In some cases the visual sequence results from neighbouring open spaces simply being visible within 300m to 400m or accessible along footpaths.

370. Open spaces help to provide orientation when moving around the Borough by adding contrast, visual interest and views out of the built-up area along roads and railways. Open spaces also contribute to the appearance and identity of districts, wards, housing areas and centres and help to shape the Borough's urban form. Some open spaces are significant wildlife habitats which add diversity and educational value. Evidence of historical significance also adds interest to the recreational value of open space. Physical survivals from the past can contribute to local distinctiveness and to the character of wards and districts, for example, The Queen's Inclosure and Park Wood.

R14 PROTECTION OF CHILDREN'S PLAY SPACES

The redevelopment of existing play space for alternative uses will not be permitted except where one of the following apply:

(i) There is a local surplus of provision in relation to the National Playing Fields Association standard.

(ii) There are opportunities for compensating for the development by improving play space close to the development sites.

(iii) There are opportunities for providing accessible replacement play space in the local area.

The Borough Council expects applicants to enter into an agreement under Section 106 of the Town and Country Planning Act, 1990 to secure improvements to play space or new provision.

371. This policy only refers to equipped and casual play areas which have been specifically designated for children's play. Some of these are combined with other open spaces for example in urban parks. Many of these spaces need to be retained for children's healthy enjoyment but some may be suitable for other local needs such as community buildings or affordable housing. Proposals could be considered where sufficient play space would remain in the surrounding area to meet the National Playing Fields Association (NPFA) standards following development. Alternatively, it may be possible to maintain this level of provision by replacing the open space. In some areas there may alternatively be scope for upgrading local play spaces.

372. The method for assessing a surplus should be based on the catchment area of the play space proposed for development. According to the NPFA children travel less than about a quarter of a mile (400 m) to play. However, it is important to take account of heavy traffic, the absence of bridges and subways across roads and railways, watercourses, groups of large buildings and areas perceived as unsafe or unattractive. Such barriers will restrict the extent of the catchment area. Allowing for such constraints the amount of play space in any area and its estimated population (children and adults) can be compared with the NPFA standard to determine if a surplus exists. This assessment should take account of areas where children could or do play safely as well as designated playing spaces. The release of land will only be considered up to the level of the surplus.

R15 PROTECTION OF PLAYING FIELDS AND COURTS

The redevelopment of playing fields and courts for alternative uses will not be permitted except where developers compensate for the loss of open space. One or more of the following should be provided:

(i) Laying out and equipping replacement open space of at least an equivalent area and quality.

(ii) Upgrading existing playing fields and/or courts.

(iii) Development for indoor sports and recreation subject to there being no adverse effects on the neighbouring residential environment.

The replacement provision should take account of public recreational requirements.

Synthetic turf pitches are only permitted where residential amenity and nature conservation interests would not be adversely affected.

The Borough Council expects applicants to enter into an agreement under Section 106 of the Town and Country Planning Act, 1990 to secure replacement.

373. Playing fields and courts include pitches, greens, athletics tracks and training areas which are mainly for youth and adult use. These open spaces are provided by the Borough Council, form part of school and college sites or are managed or owned by private sports clubs. Schools and college open spaces are included even though they may not be currently available for public use although this could be allowed via a 'community management strategy'. These open spaces provide a resource of open land which, if developed, could not be replaced. Like school and college open spaces, private sports grounds provide an existing or potential resource for use by the public. Golf courses are not included, as suggested by the NPFA, because they are single use recreational spaces and are all private except for the municipal course at Crookhorn.

374. There is a shortage of playing fields and courts in relation to the NPFA standards throughout the Borough but mainly in Waterlooville. The Borough Council is therefore concerned that the amount of this type of open space does not fall below the existing level of provision and that, where possible, the shortages can be reduced. The Government has emphasised the importance of resisting the loss of sports pitches which contribute to a healthy society and to the environment of the urban areas. It is important therefore that playing pitches are only developed for other uses if one or more of the following justifications apply:

Sport England is satisfied that there is an excess of playing fields in the catchment and the site has no special significance for sport.
The proposed development is ancillary to the use of the site for playing fields and does not affect the quality of provision or reduce the number of pitches.
The proposal only relates to land which is incapable of being used for sport or for safety margins and does not reduce the playing area or result in the loss of other sporting/ancillary facilities.
Playing fields which are developed are replaced by provision of at least equivalent quality, quantity and management in a suitable location before the development starts.
The proposal is for an indoor or outdoor sports facility which would outweigh the loss of the playing fields.

375. In accordance with the requirements of section 77 of the School Standards and Framework Act, 1998, the County Council may seek the development of playing fields to rationalise its land holdings as a means of financing recreational and educational improvements. Where such compensatory proposals come forward, the Borough Council expects the new or enhanced sports or recreational facilities so provided to be made available for public use, where appropriate, to offset the loss of open space and complement the requirements set out in the policy criteria.

376. Some re-ordering of the pattern of playing fields and courts may be justified to provide better facilities, for example in Strategic Gaps. Areas where new playing fields and courts could be provided have been identified in Policy R16. There is also a need to retain playing fields and courts within the built up area for accessibility and environmental reasons.

R16 NEW OPEN SPACE

Planning applications for playing fields and courts and/or other forms of open space will be permitted at:

(i) Cabbagefield Row in the northern end of the Havant Gap.

(ii) Horndean Road, Emsworth.

(iii) Meyrick Road, Bedhampton.

(iv) Hampshire Farm, Emsworth.

377. These proposals are intended primarily to increase and improve the provision of open space at key locations. However, they are also available for the replacement of open space and for accommodating new playing field provision which is required in relation to new housing development. There is the potential for combining sports pitches for organised games with other leisure activities. These open spaces complement the more extensive recreation proposal at Campdown referred to in Policy R3.

378. Cabbagefield Row is a level area of farmland adjoining the Staunton Country Park boundary. This is an accessible location where replacement open space could be provided. This proposal is particularly relevant in this respect as replacement provision for any open spaces developed through the Creating Quality Places project in Leigh Park. There is a shortage of playing fields and courts throughout the Borough and Cabbagefield Row is relatively centrally located.

379. The land at Horndean Road has been acquired by the Borough Council for open space. This location has direct access from the main road system and the proposal will help to reduce the substantial shortfall in the provision of playing fields in Emsworth. It is intended that this open space will be laid out and equipped for sport and recreation through developer contributions from nearby housing developments.

380. Portsmouth Water plc have indicated that they will make available approximately 0.6 ha of land they own lying to the west of Meyrick Road, for use as public open space in conjunction with a comprehensive package of proposed employment and residential development on the other land they own in the locality at Palk Road (Policy EMP1.5) and Ranelagh Road (Policy H3.9). The proposed open space will be secured and laid out through legal (Section 106) agreements to provide recreational facilities and local amenity in connection with the proposed housing and employment developments. It will also result in improved public access to Hermitage Stream, which would be protected and enhanced in accordance with Policy L4 Stream Corridors.

381. The proposal at Hampshire Farm extends to some 17 ha and will be provided by the development of the adjoining land for housing (Policy H4.3). Open space is an appropriate use in the Strategic Gap and would address the acknowledged shortfall in the locality. The proposal would also safeguard a major part of the open area between Emsworth and Westbourne and prevent any subsequent pressures for development.

R17 PLAYING SPACE RELATED TO NEW HOUSING DEVELOPMENT

Housing developments for more than 5 dwellings will only be permitted provided they make provision for children's play space and playing fields and courts in accordance with the National Playing Fields Association (NPFA) standards.

Play space, including playing fields and courts, can either form part of the development or be provided at an alternative location which the Borough Council considers acceptable.

The Borough Council expects the payment of contributions where the amount of open space which is required is too small, or where it would be inappropriate, to justify provision as part of the development.

The payment should be sufficient to cover the cost of acquiring, preparing, equipping and maintaining the proportion of playing space related to the development where possible at a neighbouring and accessible location.

Alternatively contributions may also be negotiated to improve the capacity of existing playing space to meet the requirements of the occupiers of the new housing.

The Borough Council expects applicants to enter into an agreement under Section 106 of the Town and Country Planning Act, 1990 to secure the provision of open space or contributions.

New playing fields and courts provided as a result of these agreements should be located in relation to the strategic assessments of the need for provision.

382. Adequate provision of open space related to new development is essential for proper planning, not least of all to avoid town cramming. The policy applies to proposals involving the development of more than 5 dwellings. All residents have a requirement for accessible open space as either active or passive users. On-site provision will be expected in larger schemes (minimum of 70 dwellings), but the policy provides for contributions towards off-site provision, where on-site provision would be either inappropriate or unsatisfactory.

383. The contributions will be added together until there is sufficient money to pay for either a new open space or the upgrading of existing provision. The contribution will be based on estimates of the costs of acquiring the land and preparing, equipping and maintaining it to the standards required by the Borough Council at the time of the planning application. The details of the application of this policy in terms of contributions and the location of provision and improvements are set out in Supplementary Planning Guidance Provision and Improvement of Playing Space for New Housing Development .

R18 ALLOTMENTS

Developments which result in the loss of allotments will only be permitted if one of the following applies:

(i) The allotments are no longer required because of lack of demand.

(ii) Development of the land is required for a recognised local community need.

Where allotments are released for development and if there is a demand, provision should be made either by bringing existing spaces into use or by creating new provision.

384. The reasons for retaining open space apply equally to allotments. The Borough Council is thus concerned to safeguard their contribution to leisure but recognises that a flexible approach is required. Development may be justified where it meets other requirements especially where allotments are underused. There is a general shortage of allotments on Hayling Island resulting in long waiting periods. Investigations will be undertaken with the aim of identifying a site for additional new allotment provision on Hayling Island.

R19 LEISURE ROUTES

Planning permission will not be granted for development which would interrupt the continuity of existing or potential leisure routes. Where possible this network will be extended by negotiating public access with landowners. Where appropriate the Borough Council will expect developers to set aside a corridor to implement a section of a route crossing their site. A high priority will be given to local requirements including the protection of areas of nature conservation significance.

Proposals for improving and creating new routes should take account of the requirements of people with mobility problems.

The use of leisure routes by cyclists and horseriders will depend on the suitability of the route and the possibility for achieving safe conditions for all users. Proposals for the combined use of recreation routes will only be permitted if pedestrians and cyclists can be segregated from horseriders.

385. The policy is justified by the recreational potential of the urban fringe and the countryside on Hayling Island, at Warblington and north of Emsworth. Use of these areas can be improved by extending public access for walkers, cyclists and horseriders by linking rights of way to provide circular and varied routes via countryside gaps, green chains, stream valleys and along the coast as part of the Rights of Way Improvements Plan. Improved access for people with restricted mobility is also important since existing rights of way are often narrow, with uneven surfaces and obstacles such as stiles.

386. The Solent Way and Wayfarers' Walk long distance paths, the Staunton Way, the Hermitage Stream Path and the Hayling Billy Trail already cross the Borough and serve as a framework for future initiatives. However, the priority for an additional leisure route is on Hayling Island where a circular path would improve countryside access for local residents as well as contributing to 'green tourism'. The route is likely to be most popular if it is continuous and as close as possible to Chichester Harbour in order to complement the existing access to the coast along Langstone Harbour and Beachlands.