• Contents
• Introduction
• Strategic Policies
• Economy, Industry & Commerce
• Housing
• Town Centres, Retailing & Leisure
• General Community Services
• Transport
• Open Environment
• Built & Historic Environment
• Waste, Pollution, Minerals, Water & Energy
• Planning Standards & Controls
• Car Parking Standards
• Cycle Parking Standards
• Proposals Map Schedules
• Glossary of Terms

CHAPTER 7: OPEN ENVIRONMENT

INTRODUCTION

BACKGROUND

VISION STATEMENT

POLICIES AND PROPOSALS

Protecting the Intrinsic Value of Open Spaces
ENV1 Urban Open Space

Metropolitan Green Belt and Metropolitan Open Land
ENV2 Boundary of the Green Belt
ENV3 Development in the Green Belt
ENV4 Uses within Metropolitan Open Land
ENV5 Development in Metropolitan Open Land

Biodiversity and Nature Conservation
ENV6 Protected Species/Biodiversity
ENV7 Principal Sites of Nature Conservation Importance
ENV8 Sites of Local Nature Conservation Importance
(including Local Nature Reserves)
ENV9 Brownfield sites of ecological importance
ENV10 Facilities for visitors
ENV11 Conservation of Green Corridors
ENV12 New Green Corridors

Using Open Spaces for Informal Recreation
ENV13 Lee Valley Regional Park
ENV14 Parks
ENV15 Parks and Gardens of Local Historic Interest
ENV16 New Open Spaces
ENV17 Play Areas
ENV18 Allotments
ENV19 Walking

Using Open Spaces for Sports
ENV20 Playing Fields
ENV21 Water-based recreation

Environmental Improvements
ENV22 Trees
ENV23 Environmental Improvements to railway land

Table 7.1 Types of Publicly Accessible Open Space
Table 7.2 Public Green & Publicly Accessible Sitting-Out Areas

Fig 7.1 Lee Valley Special Protection Area
Fig 7.2 Ancient Woodland in Waltham Forest
Fig 7.3 Epping Forest Special Area of Conservation
Fig 7.4 Local Park Deficiency Areas in Waltham Forest

BACKGROUND

7.7 Waltham Forest has a wide variety of different open spaces, ranging from the internationally important nature reserves of the Lee Valley and Epping Forest, to parks, allotments, playing fields and school grounds. Often the most valuable to local people are areas near to their homes – small parks, play areas or other green open spaces.

Open Land

7.8 The Borough is in the fortunate position of being surrounded by the open land and countryside of the Lea Valley and Epping Forest. Within the open land there are a variety of habitats including woodland of various types and ages; as well as scrub, grassland and heath in Epping Forest; rough grazing, marshland and maintained grassland in the Lea Valley; and intensively managed playing fields and parks within, or adjacent to, the built-up area. The other outstanding features are the Lea Valley Reservoirs. Between these internationally important areas of wildlife habitat, there is a network of stepping stones and corridors of open space that will be managed and protected to extend areas of wildlife habitat and bring biodiversity into the heart of the borough. A large proportion of the open land in Waltham Forest is either Metropolitan Green Belt or Metropolitan Open Land allocated in previous Development Plans.

7.9 Epping Forest is managed by the Corporation of London as the Conservators of Epping Forest. The Conservators are charged with maintaining the natural aspect of the Forest and keeping it unenclosed and unbuilt on as countryside for the public's informal recreation and enjoyment. Large parts of the Forest have Site of Special Scientific Interest status and the Forest is also a Special Area for Conservation. It is designated as 'Heritage Land', that is, open land of regional significance for its landscape, historical, and nature conservation interest. The concept of Heritage Land was proposed jointly by the Countryside Commission, English Nature (formerly the Nature Conservancy Council), and the London Ecology Unit with the support of English Heritage.

7.10 On the western side of the Borough is the Lea Valley, large parts of which are owned and managed by Thames Water plc. Much of the Lea Valley lies within the Lee Valley Park which is run by the Lee Valley Regional Park Authority (LVRPA). The Park stretches for some 40 kilometres (25 miles) from Ware in Hertfordshire to the Thames at East India Dock Basin. The nature conservation value of the Lee Valley Corridor is of international, regional and local importance. It includes a number of SSSI’s, and the Walthamstow Reservoirs complex is a Special Protection Area. This high quality natural environment provides a kind of ‘green lung’ for a large proportion of London’s population, and on the cultural level it still retains evidence of its historical and industrial past. Under the Lee Valley Regional Park Act 1966, it is the duty of the Authority to develop and manage the Park for leisure, recreation, sports and nature conservation.

7.11 The LVRPA is obliged to produce a plan which shows proposals for the future use and development of the Regional Park. The Regional Park Authority have recently completed a review of the 1986 Park Plan which was adopted (April 2000). In preparing this plan the Park Authority is required to consult Waltham Forest Council. However, the Council remains the local planning authority for that part of the Regional Park which is in the Borough, although it is required to consult the LVRPA on any planning application which may affect the Regional Park. Additionally, proposals contained in the Lee Valley Regional Park Plan are included in this UDP by virtue of the 1966 Lee Valley Regional Park Act (see also policy ENV13).

Vision Statement

7.12 The Council’s ‘vision’ for the future of the borough’s open environment will be guided by the following objectives*.

a) To protect the intrinsic value of open space areas. See particularly policy ENV1.
b) To preserve and enhance areas of Metropolitan Green Belt/Open Land.
See particularly policies ENV2-ENV5.
c) To protect vulnerable species and safeguard habitats which are of nature conservation value. See particularly policies ENV6-ENV12.
d) To promote the informal use of the borough’s varied types of open space. See particularly policies ENV13-ENV21.
e) To encourage the use of and protect from inappropriate development the borough’s sports grounds and water areas.
See particularly policies ENV20/21.
f) To seek environmental improvements to those areas of the borough where they are most needed. See particularly policies ENV22/23.
g) To maximise opportunities for the enjoyment of recreational open space by all sections of the community.
Note
* The principal policies (as listed above) are shown for information, however policies often relate to more than one objective.

POLICIES AND PROPOSALS

Protecting the Intrinsic Value of Open Spaces

7.13 The demand from competing land uses continues to put increased development pressure on all of the borough’s open space areas. The Council as part of its sustainable development objectives, will protect all open space areas as they provide wide ranging environmental and social benefits such as recreation (both formal and informal), visual amenity and nature conservation habitats.

Urban Open Space

7.14 Public/Private Open Space encompasses public parks, playing fields, allotments, natural grasslands, woodland, river corridors and other urban spaces which meet recreational and non-recreational needs within the urban area.

7.15 The Council considers that all such open spaces in the borough are important and will seek their retention. Public/Private Open Space is a precious asset which is virtually impossible to replace. Once an area of open space is built upon it is lost forever. If, for any reason an area of open space is no longer required for its present purpose, the Council will nonetheless seek to retain the open aspect and recreational potential of the site.

7.16 It is particularly important to retain Urban Open Space in the parts of the Borough which are deficient in open space provision (see Fig 7.4), having regard to the types and accessibility of open space as set out in Table 7.1. Some parts of the Borough, particularly in the south and east, are beyond easy walking distance of a park or other public open space.

7.17 The Council has completed a comprehensive survey of all types of open space within the borough (both public & private), as recommended in the Llewelyn-Davies study of Open Space Planning in London, October 1992. This study recommended that boroughs should identify all open spaces as the starting point of appraising open space planning in UDP preparation.

7.18 The Council identified many spaces which did not fall within LPAC’s Publicly Accessible Open Space Hierarchy but did provide informal recreational provision, often in areas deficient in POS. Sitting out areas were one of several categories not within the hierarchy. These comprised very small areas of open space, generally not large enough to be classified as small local parks but providing important amenity areas for informal recreation/sitting out. Thirty-two sites were identified with a total area of twenty-eight acres, of which seventeen were located in areas of local park deficiency (see Table 7.2).

7.19 In the case of sports grounds, enabling development has resulted in the loss of (4 hectares in total) of open space since the 1996 UDP was adopted, however, this has been the exception.

7.20 Parks, and other Urban Open Spaces are not only important because they provide the setting for leisure, recreational and Arts Culture Entertainment (ACE) activities to take place. They are often also attractive areas in their own right and therefore of considerable amenity value. This is particularly true for parts of the Borough which are densely built-up.

7.21 The Open Spaces and Nature Conservation Focus Group have produced a series of objectives and actions for open spaces. These are incorporated into the overall Agenda 21 Action Plan for the borough, endorsed by the Council in November 1999. One of the main aims of the Waltham Forest’s Local Agenda 21 Action Plan is to help conserve, protect and regenerate open spaces throughout the borough. The two area-based Agenda 21 groups have been implementing community projects relating to the natural environment in their areas since 1995.

Metropolitan Green Belt and Metropolitan Open Land

7.22 The Green Belt in the Borough is part of the Metropolitan Green Belt which surrounds London. This was first identified in the 1930s as a means to control London's outward growth and to preserve the open nature of the countryside around London. There is a long term commitment on the part of both central and local Government to maintain the Green Belt by keeping it free from unsuitable building development and other unsuitable land uses. This commitment was continued in Strategic Planning Guidance for London, which summarises the main purposes of the Green Belt in London:

a) to check the unrestricted sprawl of the built up area;
b) to prevent the surrounding countryside from further encroachment;
c) to prevent London from merging with neighbouring towns;
d) to assist in urban regeneration.

7.23 Metropolitan Open Land (MOL) is open land within the urban area which is important to London as a whole or to a part of London stretching across more than one borough. Areas of MOL were originally identified in the Greater London Development Plan (1976). The concept of MOL remains valid today. Strategic Planning Guidance for London indicated that MOL may:

a) Contribute to the physical structure or character of London by providing attractive breaks in the built up area;
b) Include open air facilities (especially for leisure, recreation and sport) for the people of the whole or part of London;
c) Contain features or landscape of historic, recreational, nature conservation or scientific interest, worthy of protection on account of their value nationally or to the whole or part of London.

7.24 In addition to Metropolitan Green Belt and Metropolitan Open Land, there are a large number of other open spaces in the borough such as parks, playing fields and allotments. There are also many smaller pockets of open land such as gardens and churchyards which fulfill an important function as amenity open space. The Council considers that all open land can be important for amenity, recreational, nature conservation, or other reasons and should be protected wherever possible.

Boundary of the Green Belt

7.25 Government guidance on Green Belts is contained in Planning Policy Guidance Note 2. It states that

"the essential characteristic of Green Belts is their permanence and their protection must be maintained as far as can be seen ahead...detailed Green Belt boundaries defined in adopted local plans...should be altered only exceptionally."

7.26 Regional guidance in Regional Policy Guidance Note 3 endorses the general principles set out in PPG2 and states "UDPs should show approved boundaries precisely. Where exceptionally boundaries need to be revised, proposed changes should be clearly identified and justified, and the written statement should explain the exceptional circumstances behind any proposed change."

Development in the Green Belt

7.27 Government guidance on Green Belts is contained in PPG2. This guidance note states that the general policies controlling development apply with equal force in green belts, but there is, in addition a general presumption against inappropriate development within them. The guidance also indicates which uses are appropriate in the Green Belt. It also states that
"...local planning policies should make no reference to the possibility of allowing other development in exceptional circumstances."

7.28 Part of the Green Belt in Waltham Forest also lies within the Lee Valley Regional Park. The Lee Valley Regional Park Authority (LVRPA) was established by an Act of Parliament in 1966 following initiatives by local authorities. The purpose of the Authority is to develop the Lee Valley "as a place for the occupation of leisure, recreation, sports, games or amusements, or any similar activity, for the provision of nature reserves and for the provision and enjoyment of entertainments of any kind." The LVRPA is responsible for providing leisure and recreational facilities of local and regional importance.

7.29 The 1966 Act defines the relationship between the Development Plan of a local authority and the Park's own Plan, currently the Lee Valley Regional Park Plan 2000. Section 14(2) of the Act states:

"The local planning authority shall from time to time include in their development plans...such part of the plan (Lee Valley Regional Park Plan) as relates to their area."

Therefore, in considering proposals in that part of the Green Belt which is also within the Park, the Council will have regard to Policy ENV 3 and the policies and proposals of the Regional Park Plan.

7.30 Planning applications for inappropriate uses in the Green Belt would be contrary to policies in the UDP. Any exceptional cases would be treated as departures from the plan and would be referred to the Secretary of State.

Uses within Metropolitan Open Land

7.31 Areas of Metropolitan Open Land are substantial areas of open space within the built-up area which are primarily in recreational use and which are important for more than a local catchment area. These areas have equal status to areas of Metropolitan Green Belt, and only the uses outlined above will be permitted in order to protect their open character. However, small buildings ancillary to these uses, such as changing rooms or storage for ground maintenance may be acceptable.

The Council has identified five areas of Metropolitan Open Land:

a) Larkswood;
b) Marsh Lane/Ive Farm/Oliver Road playing fields and allotments;
c) Land in the Lee Valley South of Coppermill Lane;
d) Land off Eastway;
e) Land off Temple Mills Lane

7.32 Areas (b)-(e) are also within the Lee Valley Regional Park. The remit of the LVRPA and the relationship between the UDP and the Regional Park Plan is set out in the reasoned justification to Policy ENV 3 above. Therefore in considering proposals in those areas of MOL which are also within the Park the Council will have regard to policy ENV 4 and the policies and proposals of the Regional Park Plan.

Development on Metropolitan Open Land

7.33 There is great variety in the areas of Metropolitan Open Land. Each area has its own character and is used for a different range of activities. The Council is seeking to retain the open nature of the areas of Metropolitan Open Land as well as the diversity in their character. Any new buildings will be required to achieve high standards of design and landscaping and will need to complement any existing development.

Biodiversity and Nature Conservation

7.34 The protection and enhancement of natural habitats and species will form an essential part of the Council’s commitment towards the Biodiversity Action Plan, a strategy for sustainable development and Agenda 21, and it will continue to identify locations where there is a need to safeguard habitats and protect priority species. The Waltham Forest Biodiversity Action Plan was published in early 2003 by the Biodiversity Action Plan Partnership.

7.35 The London Biodiversity Partnership has published the London Biodiversity Action Plan. The Mayor has published a Biodiversity Strategy.

7.36 The Mayor of London has endorsed the large number of sites in Waltham Forest which were identified by the former London Ecology Unit as sites of nature conservation value. The sites, which vary considerably in their size and character have been put into three categories by the LEU and described in their handbook 'Nature Conservation in Waltham Forest'. The handbook is part of a series entitled 'A Nature Conservation Strategy for London' and should be consulted for a full description of each of the sites. PPG9 summarises guidance on Nature Conservation, including the planning implications of SSSI status and the Habitats Directive, as well as stressing the local importance of natural areas which have not received statutory protection.

7.37 The Sites of Metropolitan Importance contain some of the best examples of London's natural habitats and contain rare species of plants, animals, or birds. Two large Metropolitan Sites lie partly or wholly within Waltham Forest; these are Epping Forest (M12) and parts of the Lee Valley (M71).

7.38 English Nature has identified four areas in or partly in Waltham Forest as Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs); Chingford Reservoirs, Walthamstow Reservoirs and Walthamstow Marshes and Epping Forest. All four SSSIs are located within the Sites of Metropolitan Importance. The statutory consultation area for the Chingford Reservoirs SSSI includes land within the borough. Walthamstow Reservoirs are designated as a Special Protection Area (SPA) identified under the EC Birds Directive. They form part of the Lee Valley Special Protection Area and RAMSAR site. Epping Forest is a Special Area for Conservation (SAC) under the EC Habitats Directive. The Council has an international responsibility towards the safeguarding of these sites. The SSSIs are shown on the Proposals Map and the areas of the SPA and SAC within the Borough boundaries are shown on Figures 7.1 and 7.3 respectively.

7.39 The Sites of Borough Importance are areas which are important for nature conservation from a Borough perspective. Nine of these have been identified by the GLA.

7.40 The Sites of Local Importance have a vital role for local communities as they provide opportunities for people to have contact with the natural environment close to their own homes. They are particularly important in areas which are not close to Sites of Metropolitan or Borough Importance.

7.41 There are a number of areas of Ancient Woodland in Waltham Forest, and these are shown on Figure 7.2. Ancient Woodlands are woodlands which have been in existence since at least the year AD1600 and they are all located either in the Sites of Metropolitan Importance or the Sites of Borough Importance. Although much of this woodland falls under the direct control of the Corporation of London as the Conservators of Epping Forest, there are three sites owned by the Borough, at Ainslie Wood, Larkswood and the White House.

7.42 Some Sites of Nature Conservation Importance may justify designation as Local Nature Reserves under the 1949 National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act. In order for a local authority to declare a site a Local Nature Reserve it must have a legal interest in the land. It must also consult with English Nature before making any declaration. Such designation gives local authorities powers to enact by-laws applying to the site.

7.43 Epping Forest on the eastern side of the Borough, and the Lea Valley to the west, are two superb green corridors. They both extend from the countryside in the north right into the heart of London. Therefore, on one side is an almost unbroken strip of woodland, shrub and grassland, and on the other side is an area of water, grassland, scrub, marshland and other habitats famous for its birdlife. All the sites in the borough which have been identified by the GLA as of Metropolitan Importance for nature conservation can be found in one or other of these green corridors. The Council supports measures to link these important corridors with smaller habitat corridors which extend into the heart of the borough and into neighbouring boroughs and Districts.

7.44 There is a recognition in PPG9, that protection of wildlife heritage should not be confined to statutorily designated sites but should also include local designations. Nature conservation interests will be taken into account in assessing any planning proposals in urban areas where there is wildlife of local importance. Sites of Special Scientific Interest, Principal Sites of Nature Conservation Interest, Sites of Local Nature Conservation Importance and a Local Nature Reserve are shown on the Proposals Map and listed in Schedules 22, 23, 24, and 25 to the UDP.

Biodiversity Action Plans

7.45 Since the 1996 UDP was adopted, a major initiative has been developed by this country’s signing of the Convention on Biological Diversity at the Rio Earth Summit. The term biodiversity was chosen to describe the variety of all life on earth. Subsequently, a United Kingdom Biodiversity Steering Group compiled a list to be given national priority for conserving natural habitats and endangered species.

7.46 The Government have made it clear that national conservation targets will largely be implemented through a series of Local Biodiversity Action Plans (LBAP’s) which will generally cover local authority boundaries. LBAP’s will also address the conservation needs of locally important habitats and species. The Waltham Forest Biodiversity Action Plan, lists priority habitats and species as does the Lee Valley Regional Park’s Biodiversity Action Plan. Through the planning and development process many of the objectives of LBAP’s can be achieved, to the benefit of the environment and the local community. New developments have the potential to increase the amount of open space and wildlife habitat within the borough and to increase biodiversity.

Protected Species/Biodiversity

7.47 The protection of species is an important part of the Mayor of London’s Biodiversity Strategy, the Council’s Biodiversity Action Plan and its policies for sustainable development and Local Agenda 21. The Waltham Forest Biodiversity Action Plan includes Action Plans for 11 Habitats. The Habitat Action Plans outline measures that will be taken to safeguard habitats and associated species, not all of these areas of habitat lie within Principal Sites of Nature Conservation Importance.

7.48 The Council seeks to safeguard and where appropriate increase those habitats included in the Waltham Forest Biodiversity Action Plan. This will be carried out in a number of ways as follows:

• The requirement of an assessment of the likely impacts to be submitted where a development proposal would significantly affect a habitat covered by the Council’s BAP;
• The inclusion of at least 40% of species in landscaping schemes involving new development to be native in origin.

The Council will be preparing supplementary planning guidance on biodiversity and nature conservation which will set out the above requirements in more detail. The incorporation of native species into landscaping schemes will increase the linkages between habitats and will provide greater opportunities for biodiversity. This guidance is in line with the Habitat Action Plans for Parks and Open Spaces and for the Gardens Habitat Action Plan.

7.49 The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and amendments, gives legal protection to a number of species, such as most birds, all bats, reptiles, water voles, the great crested newt and certain plants. The Protection of Badgers Act 1992, gives legal protection to badgers. Many of these species are not necessarily found on sites which have already received protection through planning policies or as statutory Sites of Special Scientific Interest or Local Nature Reserves. They may therefore be threatened by development proposals or maintenance work (see Environmental Impact Assessment regulations Policy WPM6).

Principal Sites of Nature Conservation Importance

7.50 The Principal Sites of Nature Conservation Importance include all of the Metropolitan and Borough sites identified by the GLA with the exception of Temple Mills Marshalling Yard. These are the most important sites for nature conservation in the borough. They include the four SSSIs and all the Ancient Woodlands in Waltham Forest.

7.51 English Nature (EN) must be consulted when dealing with planning applications affecting Sites of Special Scientific Interest and the Council will also consult them on planning applications in or near areas of Ancient Woodland. The Environment Agency (EA) and Greater London Authority (GLA) will be consulted where the water environment and GLA designated sites may be affected. For sites in its ownership the Council will consult with experts including EN and the GLA. Interested local groups and individuals also have a great deal of knowledge and expertise to contribute to this process and to the preparation of management plans.

7.52 The Principal Sites of Nature Conservation Importance are valuable as habitats which support diverse communities of plants and wildlife. They are also valuable for scientific reasons and are often visually attractive. These sites are therefore beneficial not only to schools and other groups and individuals interested in natural history, but they also enable other members of the public to have contact with the natural environment. This is particularly important in a borough such as Waltham Forest which contains some areas where the amount of open space and other natural areas is limited.

7.53 Temple Mills Marshalling Yard has not been included as a Principal Site of Nature Conservation Importance because the whole site is currently occupied for rail or rail related uses.

Sites of Local Nature Conservation Importance

7.54 Most of the sites covered by this policy were identified by the Greater London Authority. A number of other sites have also been included which are of less intrinsic value for nature conservation than the Metropolitan and Borough Sites which are dealt with by Policy ENV 7 but may nevertheless be an important resource in a local area otherwise lacking in natural open space. They are particularly important as a focus for local communities and for use by schools. Many local sites have considerable potential for increasing the nature conservation interest by appropriate management and habitat creation.

7.55 The Council wishes opportunities for nature conservation to be maximised at these locations. Indeed, suitable management could substantially increase the nature conservation interest of several of these sites. This could justify their designation as Principal Sites of Nature Conservation Importance at a later date.

7.56 Other useful small sites, for example within school grounds, may well also exist, or may arise over the course of time. These would provide further opportunities for residents and schools to enjoy contact with the natural world and advantage should be taken of any such openings.

7.57 Where development is to be permitted on land adjoining Local Sites, the Council will need to be satisfied that there will be no significant adverse effect on the value of the site for nature conservation.

Local Nature Reserves

7.58 The Council in consultation with English Nature has designated Ainslie Wood as a statutory Local Nature Reserve (LNR). The Council will seek to designate additional LNRs. It may where appropriate, purchase or enter into management agreements over privately owned sites with the intention of declaring them as Local Nature Reserves.

7.59 LNRs are designated by local authorities under Section 21 of the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Acts 1949. LNRs are habitats of local significance that make a useful contribution to nature conservation and provide opportunities for the public to learn about wildlife.

Brownfield sites of ecological importance

7.60 Some previously developed land is of ecological significance and if it can be established that the habitat has biodiversity value it will be protected on a permanent basis. The Council will seek to protect the land for wildlife and aim for it to be opened for public access where appropriate, particularly in areas deficient in accessible sites of nature conservation importance.

7.61 Disused land and wasteland can often develop into areas with ecologically interesting flora and fauna and if managed appropriately, particularly in urban areas, provide significant amenity and ecological value.

Management plans

7.62 In order to ensure that both the Principal and Local Sites of Nature Conservation Importance realise their full potential, it is important that effective nature conservation management plans are prepared and implemented.

7.63 Most Sites of Nature Conservation Importance in the borough are not controlled by the Council but by Thames Water plc, the Lee Valley Regional Park Authority, and the Corporation of London as the Conservators of Epping Forest. The Council will encourage these and other controlling organizations to prepare and review management plans for such land under their control.

7.64 In order to monitor the effectiveness of its nature conservation policies and management plans, the Council will maintain up to date information on Sites of Nature Conservation Importance in the Borough wherever possible. This information will be available to the public except where the sensitivity of the site or species therein necessitates its being kept confidential.

Facilities for visitors

7.65 This policy applies both to the Principal and Local Sites of Nature Conservation Importance. The Council wishes to see good quality facilities at these sites and provision should be made for this in management plans. The type of facilities will vary from site to site but may include toilets and an information centre. It is important to provide good facilities for visitors in order to encourage people to visit the sites.

7.66 In keeping with the Mayor of London’s Biodiversity Strategy, access to nature will be promoted. At some of the Sites of Nature Conservation Importance there is no access for members of the public, and at other Sites access is limited. Access can also be provided by improving the natural value of presently accessible open spaces. Where appropriate the Council would like to see increased accessibility to Sites, so that everyone, including people with disabilities, can conveniently reach them. This will help to ensure that a wide cross section of the community can explore the variety of interesting habitats that exist in the borough and, therefore, benefit from nature conservation. However, the Council recognises that restrictions may have to be imposed at certain sites in order to protect vulnerable habitats or breeding animals. Some sites can provide a good educational and recreational resource without the need for substantial facilities - waymarked pathways and leaflets, for example, would be quite adequate.

Conservation of Green Corridors

7.67 Green Corridors are linear unbroken or near-continuous areas of open space which help to maintain wildlife habitats and which are essential for the preservation and enhancement of biodiversity. The Council will examine the impact of development proposals (including extensions to gardens), to ensure that the integrity of the corridors is not destroyed or impaired. It will also ensure that new development within or adjacent to the corridors, contributes to their effectiveness wherever possible through appropriate siting/design of buildings and landscaping measures.

7.68 Epping Forest on the eastern side of the borough, and the Lee Valley on the west, are two superb Green Corridors. They both extend from the countryside in the north right into the heart of London. Therefore, on one side is an almost unbroken strip of woodland, scrub and grassland, and on the other side is an area of water, grassland, scrub, marshland and other habitats famous for its bird life. Both these areas are protected by the European Habitats Directive, Acts of Parliament as well as Metropolitan Green Belt/Open Land designations.

7.69 These corridors provide wildlife habitats and retreats, and act as valuable conduits for the movement of plants and animals between different habitats which they require for their survival. Many of the open spaces in Waltham Forest, together with small areas of land that link them, function as Green Corridors. This web of interconnected open spaces can provide opportunities for informal recreation such as walking. When finances are available, the Council will seek where appropriate and not to the detriment of visual amenity, to establish a network of signposted and way marked walks along these corridors in order to provide linkages to larger areas of open space. All the sites in the borough which have been identified by the London Ecology Unit as of Metropolitan Importance for nature conservation can be found in one or other of these Green Corridors. The Council will seek to protect and enhance them in order to maintain their integrity.

New Green Corridors

7.70 The Ching Walkway is a recently designated new Green Corridor which links the two existing corridors through the middle of the borough. The Green Corridor is currently broken in several places and when opportunities arise the Council will seek to complete and strengthen it. This could, for example, involve the opening up of culverted parts of the Ching Brook as well as stretches of the watercourse which are inaccessible at present.

7.71 Other, smaller Green Corridors may exist or arise over the course of time within the built-up area. The Council will endeavour to identify any such Green Corridors and adopt a strategy for their protection and enhancement.

7.72 The Council will support measures to link the borough's Green Corridors with those in neighbouring boroughs and districts.

Using Open Spaces for Informal Recreation

Epping Forest

7.73 Some parts of Epping Forest, such as Wanstead Flats and the Hollow Ponds area are close to heavily populated built-up areas of the borough, some of which are deficient in open space. Those parts of the Forest are intensively used and meet some of the local open space needs of local people.

7.74 Other parts of the Forest in the north of the borough are much more difficult for people to visit, particularly if they do not have access to a private car. As a result, these areas are used much less intensively. Policies in the Transport Chapter of this Plan seek to provide better public transport services (see policies TSP1- 3), and this would help to reduce the problem of poor access to parts of Epping Forest.

7.75 The Council will continue to support the Conservators of Epping Forest in their efforts to improve facilities in the Forest. In particular, it will encourage them to manage those parts of the Forest which are intensively used in order to improve facilities there for local people. However, it is important to ensure that any improvements to facilities such as better car parks and children's play areas, are very carefully designed and located so as not to spoil the natural aspect of the Forest or any features of nature conservation value.

Lee Valley Regional Park

7.76 The Lee Valley Regional Park Authority (LVRPA) was established by an Act of Parliament in 1966 following initiatives by local authorities. The purpose of the Authority is to develop the Lee Valley
"as a place for the occupation of leisure, recreation, sports, games or amusements, or any similar activity, for the provision of nature reserves and for the provision and enjoyment of entertainments of any kind".
The LVRPA is responsible for providing leisure and recreational facilities of local and regional importance.

7.77 The 1966 Act defines the relationship between the Development Plan of a local authority and the Park's own Plan, currently the Lee Valley Regional Park Plan 2000. Section 14(2) of the Act states
"The local planning authority shall from time to time include in their development plans …… such part of the plan (Lee Valley Regional Park Plan) as relates to their area".
Therefore, by virtue of this provision in the 1966 Act, this UDP includes that part of the Regional Park Plan which relates to Waltham Forest. However, the Act also makes provision that such inclusion does not indicate the Council's approval. Schedule 26 of this plan lists the relevant proposals of the Regional Park Plan together with the Council's views on these proposals.

7.78 The Lee Valley Regional Park offers the borough's residents access to a wide range of leisure facilities. For example, there are sports centres at Eastway and Picketts Lock, opportunities for horse-riding at the Lea Bridge horse-riding centre and for fishing and bird-watching at numerous locations. The Park’s open spaces have ‘hosted’ arts, cultural and social events and the waterways have the potential to offer more in the way of a cultural resource to local and regional community interests. The Council supports the LVRPA in its efforts to improve the range and quality of the leisure facilities which it provides, particularly those which are accessible for Waltham Forest residents.

7.79 Providing reasonable access to the Lee Valley Regional Park is an important issue. Although some facilities such as the Picketts Lock Centre, are geographically close to this borough, they are not always easy places to visit for people who do not have access to a car. The 2000 Regional Park Plan recognises this difficulty and seeks improvements in access both to and within the Park by all modes of transport. The Council supports these proposals.

7.80 The Lee Valley Regional Park Authority have produced a Biodiversity Action Plan for the whole Park. The BAP was prepared through a partnership (including LBWF) and prioritises action for nature conservation which includes targets for key species and habitats. The BAP for Waltham Forest, is being developed to include appropriate species and habitats from the Lee Valley Regional Park Plan to ensure integration and a linked approach to nature conservation.

7.81 The Lee Valley has been identified by the Council as a 'green corridor' and it will oppose proposals which are detrimental to the Corridor. (see the section on Nature Conservation).

Parks

7.82 There should be a general presumption in favour of the retention of all the parks in the borough. Public parks have developed over a long period of time and have become an important part of community life. They provide opportunities for recreational activities and are attractive features of the urban environment. In a borough such as Waltham Forest they are virtually impossible to replace.

7.83 However, in accordance with its policy of improving the quality of its public open spaces, the Council accepts that occasionally some buildings or other development may be required. Any such development should improve the range and/or quality of recreational facilities. For example, the provision of a new or improved children's playground in a park where previously no such facility existed, or was of poor quality would be considered as a positive improvement.

Parks and Gardens of Local Historic Interest

7.84 The National Heritage Act 1983, enabled English Heritage to compile a Register of Parks and Gardens of Special Historic Interest in England. Historic Parks and Gardens constitute an important part of England’s cultural heritage. Whilst Waltham Forest has no entries on the English Heritage Register, it nevertheless contains several parks and gardens of Local Historic Interest. English Heritage recognises that there may be sites not included in the Register which may also have significant historical interest, and in many cases be worth conserving. The London Historic Parks and Gardens Trust, is currently compiling a list of historic parks and gardens that are worthy of protection and enhancement which will form a basis for a comprehensive review of the Register leading to further designations.

7.85 Along similar lines to its Local List of Buildings of Historic and Architectural Interest, the Council has therefore compiled a Local List of Historic Parks and Gardens in an effort to raise awareness of these valuable resources. Whilst such ‘Listing’ includes no additional statutory controls. However, by raising awareness of such sites the Council hopes to encourage more sympathetic maintenance and enhancement (and approved management plans where appropriate) to be consistent with their individual historic interest.

The following five parks will be included on the Local List:

• Highams Park (including adjacent lake)
• Mallinson Park (includes the White House) South Woodford
• Fairmead Park (includes the Queen Elizabeth’s Hunting Lodge) North Chingford
• Coronation Gardens (includes the ornamental bandstand) Leyton
• Lloyd Park (includes the Water House) Walthamstow

New Open Spaces

7.86 The overall aim of this policy is to ensure that everyone in Waltham Forest has reasonable access to parks and open spaces. To assist with this aim, the Council will seek planning obligations from developers where a new housing or other project is proposed in an area of shortfall of open space. The funding sought will be in proportion to the needs and demands likely to be made for open space by occupiers of the housing or users of other proposed types of development.

7.87 Accessibility to parks and open spaces varies considerably from place to place through the borough. In implementing this policy the Council will have regard to the types and accessibility of open space as set out in Table 7.1.

7.88 People's access to parks and the frequency that they visit them, does not only depend on the distance they have to walk, it is influenced by a range of other factors. For example, the need to cross a busy main road will prevent some people, particularly children from regularly visiting a park. To help with this situation, the Council will seek where appropriate, to improve points of access to existing parks and open spaces. In terms of need, public parks and open spaces tend to provide most benefit in those parts of the borough where small gardens and flats are common than in areas where larger gardens are more usual.

7.89 Opportunities to provide new parks and open spaces which are safe and secure are inevitably limited in a borough such as Waltham Forest where the pattern of land use is well established. Opportunities which do arise are most likely to be for small local parks and play areas. However, the Council will seek to provide new public open spaces whenever possible, but priority will be given to parts of the borough which are deficient in open space.

7.90 The Council by using funds obtained from planning obligations, has established five new local parks, two in Walthamstow at Bisterne Avenue and Kitchener Road, two more in Leytonstone at the High Road and Cann Hall Road, and a new park in Capworth Street, Leyton. The Council will explore the possibility of implementing more of these types of projects by the use of funding from planning obligations and other resources as and when possible.

7.91 Sometimes new open spaces can also be secured when major new residential developments take place. In smaller schemes this could take the form of a small public garden whereas larger developments could provide landscaped open spaces.

Play Areas

7.92 Play is vital to children's development including their education, health, social and psychological well being. It is important for children and their carers to be within easy reach of play areas, otherwise they will not be able to, or want to visit them. For this reason there will be a general presumption in favour of the retention of all the play areas in the borough. In addition, the Council has a programme to provide new play areas to extend provision in areas which are currently poorly served. The Council will also seek planning obligations where appropriate, to secure new play areas as a community benefit when major new residential developments take place.

7.93 The quality of facilities at play areas is also an important consideration. Play areas should be seen as interesting and exciting places for children, while at the same time being regarded as safe and attractive by their carers. Safety surfacing and play equipment can help create such an environment.

7.94 The National Playing Fields Association have revised their recommendations regarding access to childrens play space. The most relevant access measure is now considered to be actual walking time not the distance travelled. As distance does not take into account physical barriers such as main roads and railways, and the ease to which children can reach their play areas.

7.95 The NPFA recommendations call for the provision of different types of play areas for a range of age groups and appropriate to their needs. Most frequent, and therefore closest to home, are small areas for younger children. Less frequent, and more likely to be further away are larger areas for older children.

7.96 The three new NPFA categories of play provision (which the Council is now using) are introduced in the standard as:
a) local area for play(LAP)
b) local equipped area for play(LEAP)
c) neighbourhood equipped area for play(NEAP)

7.97 The Council intends to pay particular attention to the needs of children under seven. Children in this age group are often inhibited in play areas which are designed for children of all ages as older children tend to be more boisterous. This problem can also occur when children with disabilities try to use play facilities designed primarily for able bodied children. The Council unfortunately, due to limited resources is unable to build many play areas which meet the specific needs of disabled children. However, on occasion if appropriate funding is available, the Council can build specially designed disabled playgrounds such as in the new Langthorne Park, at High Road, Leytonstone.

Allotments

7.98 Working on allotments is a recreational activity which is enjoyed by a significant proportion of the borough's population. The multicultural community aspects of allotment gardening are contained in The Future for Allotments, Environment, Transport & Regional Affairs Committee (Fifth Report) June 1998, and the Local Government Association publication, Growing in the Community, Good Practice Guide to the Management of Allotments, June 2001. Waltham Forest currently has a total of approximately 2150 allotment plots at 35 sites, which amount to about 49 hectares of land. Of the 31 Council owned sites, 18 are statutory sites and 13 are temporary. Three of the remaining sites are owned by the Walthamstow Almshouses and General Charities and one is owned by the Corporation of London.

7.99 If a statutory allotment is developed for another use, the Council is obliged, so long as the demand exists, to provide a replacement site. Temporary allotments are sites which were originally acquired for another purpose. For the purposes of determining future land use decisions all Council owned and privately owned allotment sites within the borough will be treated as areas of Urban Open Space (see Policy ENV1).

7.100 Existing allotment provision, measured in terms of area per thousand population, is highest in Chingford and Walthamstow, and lowest in Leyton. Over the borough as a whole, vacancy levels are around 10-12% with higher vacancies in Chingford (25-28%) than Walthamstow (5-6%). The sites in Leyton and Leytonstone all have waiting lists. Analysis of the demand for allotments indicates that it is reasonable to assume that the overall demand for plots in the borough as a whole is about 0.2 hectares per 1000 population, with variation in demand in different parts of the borough.

7.101 In operating this policy the Council will not allow provision in each of the three constituency areas to fall below the guideline of 0.2 hectares per 1000 population. It will do this either by keeping allotment sites in that use or, where appropriate, by requiring them to be replaced locally if taken for other uses. Provided that 60% of plots on any individual allotment site are in use, the Council will require that site to remain in its entirety.

7.102 The effect of this policy is that provision for the three constituency areas should not fall below 10.5 ha in Chingford, 18 ha in Walthamstow and 16 ha in Leyton/Leytonstone, making 44.5 ha in all. Existing provision in Chingford (12.5 ha) and Walthamstow (21 ha) is slightly above this minimum level, whilst Leyton and Leytonstone (16 ha) has a shortfall.

7.103 The policy implies that in Leyton and Leytonstone, allotment sites should not be taken out of use unless they are replaced in the locality. For sites which are taken out of allotment use in Chingford and Walthamstow, the Council will seek to secure other open recreational use such as that the land could be returned to allotment use if the future demand increased.

7.104 It may be that the Walthamstow Almshouse and General Charities will wish to develop one or two of its allotment sites for purposes which align more closely with its role as a charity. Although the Charities have no firm proposals in this connection at present, the Council will apply this policy equally to these private sites as to its own, and will wish to have regard to the Charities' intentions in drawing up a detailed programme of evaluation of individual sites.

Walking

7.105 Walking is one of the most popular leisure activities. Walking for pleasure can simply be a stroll in the local park or it could be a longer walk in Epping Forest. The policy to improve safety for pedestrians, and improve the environment for pedestrians (TSP4), is an important aspect of the Transport Chapter. The London Walking Forum is currently working to establish a London-wide network of Metropolitan Walks. The Council supports this initiative.

7.106 Walkways are not only important for their recreational value, but can also form green corridors with nature conservation and amenity value (see paragraph 7.69).

7.107 A network of footpaths and walkways already exists in Waltham Forest, and the Council intends that these are maintained and, wherever possible, improved. Improvements could take the form of better lighting (where there are any lighting proposals the Council will seek to avoid conflict with nature conservation interests) and footpath surfaces, or by the provision of seats so that people can enjoy a rest along their walk. Wherever possible walkways should be accessible to wheelchair users, as for many disabled people this is an important form of leisure activity. Safety is also an important consideration, to enable women to enjoy walking, running etc. The Council will continue to make use of its statutory powers to maintain public rights of way.

7.108 There is a lot of potential to improve existing footpaths and walkways, and to provide new ones. For example, the Lee Valley Regional Park Authority propose the development of a park path along the Lea Valley, and the Council fully supports this proposal (see policy ENV13).

7.109 Potential for improving footpaths and walkways and providing new ones can be found in the built-up area as well as the borough's open land. Town trails could be provided to link conservation areas, listed buildings and other sites of interest. These could be marked by signboards and plaques and could follow upgraded pedestrian routes (see policy BHE18, Built and Historic Environment chapter). In addition, paths linking parks and other open spaces across the borough to form green chains could be identified. Where appropriate, cyclists could be encouraged to use the borough's network of paths and tracks.

Using open spaces for sports

Playing Fields

7.110 Sports grounds and playing fields are an increasingly valuable aspect of the total amount of open space, particularly in the more urbanised parts of the borough, not only do they provide recreational open space, they contribute to the environmental quality and amenity of an area. In addition, the promotion of sport can play an important part in regeneration initiatives, and the Council will therefore seek where appropriate to upgrade selected borough sports grounds as part of any regeneration programme.

7.111 Twenty sports pitches have been taken out of use since the 1996 UDP was adopted. This has been mainly caused by poor facilities which has led to the loss of eleven pitches in the Lea Valley (Leyton & Walthamstow Marshes) and another five through enabling development on part of the site (albeit this includes an indoor cricket facility on one of them). In land area the total amount of pitches taken out of use is approximately 20 ha, 1/5th of this has involved the loss of open space. The partial development of a site can result in:
a) The fragmentation of the whole site;
b) A reduction in the overall space available for recreation;
c) A loss of visual amenity, especially in built up parts of the borough;
d) It mitigates against the Council’s sustainability objectives - re: environmental protection of habitats and protected species.

7.112 The Council considers (for the reasons listed above) that a more restrictive policy is required for proposals for non-sport/recreational uses. By removing the perception that there is always a ‘right’ to develop part of a sports ground, that will prevent the further erosion of these open areas. Once developed it is very unlikely that open space/sports pitches will be re-provided for; in effect they will be lost for ever.

7.113 The Council however recognises that certain sports grounds are being under used, often due to poor quality facilities and pitches. The high costs of maintaining sports grounds for formal pitch sports places great strains on both public and private concerns alike. In order to help alleviate the financial burden of maintaining sports grounds for formal pitch sports and subject to the other policies of this plan, the Council will consider proposals for other forms of sport/recreational activity.

7.114 In recent years there has been an increase in the amount of artificial pitches (often with floodlighting and perimeter fencing) at various sports grounds in the borough. The Council whilst not disapproving of improvements to sports grounds, has concerns on how artificial pitches by way of their intrusive visual and increased noise element, can change the general nature of an open space (see Policy BHE9 & Policies WPM10 & 11). If the pitch is floodlit, this form of lighting may be inappropriate in certain locations, such as areas characterised by high density housing or bordering important nature conservation sites. Therefore the Council will give careful consideration to proposals which involve a change from grass to artificial pitch use.

7.115 Ten of the playing fields designated on the Proposals Map form part of educational establishments. Where development proposals on these sites arise from changes in the function or accommodation requirements of that establishment, an exception to this policy may be justified. In considering such proposals, the Council will take into account a school’s need for additional built accommodation; whether these needs can be met elsewhere within the site; and the amenity/recreational value of the playing field to the wider community.

7.116 In general, problems such as dog-fouling are making it increasingly difficult to provide playing surfaces of an acceptable standard in public parks.

Water-Based Recreation

7.117 The borough's major water areas are the water supply reservoirs in the Lea Valley owned by Thames Water plc. In addition, Epping Forest contains a number of smaller water areas, the largest being Hollow Ponds on Leyton Flats. The reservoirs and ponds in Epping Forest while providing valuable water habitats and attractive features, also offer recreational opportunities for anglers and bird-watchers. Water sports such as sailing and windsurfing also take place on the reservoirs.

7.118 The Lee Valley Regional Park is dominated by water, such as the linear waters of the River Lea, the Lee Navigation and the larger expanses of open water such as the operational reservoirs which provide facilities for water sports/boating activities. The waterbodies in the Regional Park are designed to create a range of opportunities for water recreation. The Regional Park Authority’s Water Management Strategy 1999, sets out policies and proposals for the future development and management of all enclosed waterbodies within the Regional Park boundary.

Environmental Improvements

7.119 The objective of enhancing the physical environment by means of environmental improvement programmes is a far reaching one which complements policies in many of the other chapters in this plan as well as other Council initiatives. It is linked with housing policy and programmes for housing improvement, with leisure strategy and the development of parks and open spaces, with transportation issues and traffic management, and with the provision of community facilities generally.

7.120 Because of financial constraints, the Council's resources which are available for environmental improvements should be targeted to those areas where they are most needed and where they are likely to give the best value for money in terms of public impact. A high quality of design and landscaping will be expected in all environmental improvement schemes. Trees make a crucial contribution to the urban environment and are an essential element of improvement programmes. Environmental improvements are often ruined by the careless/illegal dumping of rubbish. Therefore, the Council, where appropriate, will carry out the necessary procedures (under Section 215, Town and Country Planning Act 1990) to take action against whoever is responsible in order to maintain and protect the overall quality of the environment.

7.121 As well as carrying out its own schemes, the Council will encourage other landowners, particularly those with extensive landholdings, to implement environmental enhancement programmes.

Trees

7.122 The Council will require trees of appropriate species to be planted in association with most forms of development, including housing, business, retail and leisure developments. Where feasible, the following targets will be sought within or adjacent to the site:

• 3 trees per dwelling for new housing development;
• 1 tree per 80 sq ms of gross floor space for industry, warehousing, offices and leisure development;
• 1 tree per 50 sq ms of gross floor space for retail development.

7.123 In circumstances where the Council is satisfied that some or all of the tree provision cannot be met on site or immediately adjacent to it, it will negotiate to obtain a financial contribution towards the provision of the balance necessary for tree provision on another site in the area.

7.124 Financial contributions will only be required where they are fairly and reasonably related in scale and kind to the development proposal and where such contributions will be of direct benefit to the occupiers of the new development. The Council will endeavour to ensure that all monies received from planning obligations will be spent expediently. The Council will undertake to refund any monies that remain unspent after 8 years from the date of initial payment under this scheme.

7.125 Trees are attractive features which provide variety and colour, as well as contrast to the buildings of the urban landscape. They have other practical benefits, such as screening from noise, dust, and wind, and for disguising unsightly uses generally. Therefore the Council will where possible encourage new tree planting to ameliorate the visual impact of new development so as to protect and enhance townscape value. Trees also provide habitats for wildlife, particularly birds and the Council will therefore try to retain all trees in the borough which are of amenity/ecological value to the surrounding area.

7.126 The Council will have regard to the Mayor of London’s Biodiversity Strategy, including its guidance on where and where not to plant trees. The Council is also in the process of compiling and implementing a detailed tree policy. This outlines the guidelines that the Council will follow for planting and maintaining its own trees, and for deciding which privately owned trees are worthy of protection by Tree Preservation Orders. Within Conservation Areas, trees which are not protected by Tree Preservation Orders require permission from the Council before work can be carried out on them. The Council will review its Tree Policy following the publication of further legislation and/or guidance from central Government.

7.127 The Council will continue its programme of planting and maintaining trees in accordance with the Tree Policy statement. As part of this programme, consideration will be given to the use of locally native species wherever possible. The Council will also encourage other public authorities and private landowners to plant species which are native to the locality wherever this is appropriate.

7.128 The Green Gateway Urban Forestry Initiative aims to increase the quality of life in the Thames Gateway London area by delivering sustainable urban forestry for the benefit of people, wildlife and the local economy. The Green Gateway is part of the Thames Gateway London Strategy to regenerate the Thames Estuary area, which includes Waltham Forest. Local authorities within the Green Gateway are encouraged to work with others to protect trees and woods and increase tree cover, and to develop high quality urban design by integrating forestry and development.

Environmental improvements to railway land

7.129 The borough is served by two rail passenger lines, the Chingford to Liverpool Street and Barking to Gospel Oak. It also has two underground services, the Victoria and Central lines. With the exception of the Victoria Line, which is in a tunnel, these lines run either at surface level, on viaducts, or in cuttings and provide both opportunities as well as difficulties to be overcome. For example, railway arches can provide excellent accommodation for small workshops where new businesses can start and expand. Additionally, railway land, particularly where lines run through cuttings, is often visually attractive because of the trees, shrubs and other plants that are found there. Because they are relatively undisturbed by human activity, these areas are often of value to wildlife and act as corridors which link other open spaces and allow many species to move into the heart of built up areas.

7.130 In other areas though, railway land is an eyesore due to fly-tipping and vandalism. Another problem is that some railway arches are occupied by uses such as vehicle repairs, some of which have spilled out onto surrounding roads causing environmental problems in otherwise residential areas. Other small parcels of land adjacent to railways have been left vacant and have become unsightly, and the Council will seek arrangements with the rail authorities and London Underground to improve their maintenance.

7.131 With the Council's support, the rail authorities have implemented some small scale improvements, most noticeably along the Leytonstone section of the Barking to Gospel Oak line. Here, the refurbishment of railway arches, the cleaning and painting of bridges and other works have been carried out. It is desirable that these improvements be continued and extended, and could include brick cleaning of the viaduct sections, refurbishment of stations, improvements to land next to the lines, as well as planting and landscaping schemes. Wherever possible, environmental improvements will need to take into account the value to nature conservation of particular sites.

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