Planning bill amendment requires councils to protect play

5 June 1 min read Joe Lepper Early Years Youth Work Health

An amendment to the government’s planning bill has been tabled that would require councils to protect children’s play when making decisions about developments.

Through the amendment, 'play sufficiency assessments' would need to be included in local plans

Labour MP for Bournemouth East Tom Hayes has tabled the amendment to the Planning and Infrastructure Bill ahead of its report stage next week.

It would require councils to “assess, secure, enhance, and protect sufficient opportunities for children’s play” in its role as local planning authority.

Through the amendment "play sufficiency assessments" must be included in local plans, planning strategies and decisions on applications.

“These must specifically evaluate and report on the quantity, quality, accessibility, inclusivity, and integration of play opportunities within the planning authority’s area,” according to Hayes’ amendment.

If backed by MPs it would also stop councils from approving any development “which would lead to a net loss of formal play spaces”.

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