9. SPORT & RECREATION

9.1. Justification of Part 1 Policy

9.1.1. The health of a society is governed by the physical and mental well being of its citizens. At a local level this means ensuring that all in the community have access to the kind of recreation and leisure activities which secure and improve the quality of their lives.

9.1.2. The Government does not prescribe national standards for sport and recreation provision given the varying circumstances between areas. Local Authorities are, therefore, requested to formulate their own standards in accord with guidance set out by the National Playing Fields Association (NPFA) and the Sports Council for Wales (SCW).

9.1.3. National policy guidance recognises the importance of all kinds of sports and recreational facilities for all members of the community, including elderly people and those with disabilities. The planning system should ensure that adequate land and water resources are allocated both for organised and informal sport and recreation, taking account of the provision and protection of public open space, the multiple use of facilities and the impact on the location.

Part 2

9.2. Introduction

9.2.1. Recreation can broadly be divided into two categories, formal and informal recreation. It is important that both forms are catered for. Formal recreation includes organised games requiring specialist facilities, equipment and specific locations, whilst informal recreation such as walking, and the enjoyment of the countryside, generally does not require specialist equipment and skills. The provision of such facilities directly contributes to the quality of life in an area and can have additional economic benefit in terms of tourism.

9.2.2. There is considerable competition for the use of sites suitable for development within the County Borough. It is the aim of the Unitary Development Plan (UDP) to balance these various demands and to ensure that sufficient land and other resources are allocated for recreational purposes.

9.2.3. The amount of additional land and facilities required in the County Borough for the various formal recreational activities has been calculated in accord with guidance set out by the National Playing Fields Association (NPFA) and the Sports Council for Wales (SCW), although demand can be difficult to evaluate, as the level of use of existing facilities is only a potential indication of demand, and must be considered against the adequacy of these facilities and people’s ability to reach alternatives.

9.2.4. Sport and recreation within Bridgend County Borough is delivered, organised, coached and administered by the Council, voluntary clubs and associations, schools, national governing bodies and private sector organisations. To provide and facilitate effective sport and recreation opportunities, it is essential that a partnership approach is fostered. Essentially partnerships should focus on people development, facility upgrades and development, participation, resourcing and creation of quality standards.

9.2.5. Much of the sport and recreation budget is committed to existing services and facilities. It is likely that some developments that benefit a specific locality will become the responsibility of Town and Community Councils.

9.2.6. Generally, recreational facilities need to be located within reasonable proximity of the residential areas they serve, and to public transport routes. Particular emphasis is therefore placed on maximising the use of existing recreational facilities and developing further opportunities for recreation within urban areas. The relationship of the facilities to the transport system is vital, in particular the public transport network, as the most important factor influencing participation in recreational activities is access. Opportunities for participation will decrease progressively as the distance from the facility increases.

9.2.7. In terms of facilities the Council currently operates or contracts a range of sport and recreational facilities that are used for community and individual development. These include:-

TABLE REC1
SPORT & RECREATION FACILITIES USED FOR COMMUNITY & INDIVIDUAL DEVELOPMENT IN BRIDGEND COUNTY BOROUGH

9.2.8. Priority should be given to maximising use of existing facilities. Any new developments should be compatible with strategic objectives and with identified community need.

9.3. General Recreation

9.3.1. Traditionally, recreation has tended to concentrate on sport, but it is important that both formal and informal recreation be catered for. A wider range of recreational activities will contribute to improving the quality of life and will support other efforts in respect of housing and employment opportunities in the County Borough.

9.3.2. At the present time the Council is the major provider of recreational facilities in the County Borough. It has limited funding however, and cannot provide for the full range of recreational facilities the community with its increasing leisure time demands. The Council therefore recognises that the private sector also has a significant and growing role to play in this area. Although any private sector proposal will be judged on its merits, the provision of those facilities which may be considered to be complementary to facilities provided by the Council will be encouraged. Any private scheme to provide these facilities is expected to be of a high standard in terms of layout, scale and design. With respect to the provision of sport and recreation facilities:-

9.3.3. SPORT AND RECREATION AND LEISURE DEVELOPMENT

POLICY RC1(A)

PROPOSALS FOR NEW INDOOR SPORT AND RECREATION AND LEISURE DEVELOPMENT WILL BE PERMITTED WHERE THE DEVELOPMENT WOULD COMPLY WITH ALL THE FOLLOWING CRITERIA:-

1. THERE IS A DEMONSTRATED NEED FOR ADDITIONAL FACILITIES;

2. IN SEQUENTIAL ORDER OF PREFERENCE, ALL SUITABLE TOWN CENTRE, EDGE-OF-CENTRE, DISTRICT CENTRE AND OUT-OF-CENTRE SITES HAVE BEEN ASSESSED;

3. THE PROPOSAL, EITHER SINGULARLY OR CUMULATIVELY WITH OTHER EXISTING OR PERMITTED DEVELOPMENTS, DOES NOT THREATEN THE VITALITY AND ATTRACTIVENESS OF TOWN AND DISTRICT CENTRES;

4. IT IS WELL RELATED TO PUBLIC TRANSPORT AND THE NEEDS OF THE NON-CAR TRAVELLER;

5. THE HIGHWAY NETWORK IS CAPABLE OF ACCOMMODATING THE TRAFFIC GENERATED BY THE PROPOSALS WITHOUT AN UNACCEPTABLE EFFECT ON TRAFFIC FLOW AND PATTERNS, SAFETY, ENERGY USE OR OTHER EMISSIONS;

6. IT WILL HAVE SATISFACTORY CAR PARKING;

7. THE DEVELOPMENT CAN BE SYMPATHETICALLY ASSIMILATED INTO THE ENVIRONMENT IN TERMS OF SITING, SCALE, DESIGN AND LANDSCAPING; AND

8. THE FUNCTIONING OF OTHER USES AND THE EXISTING
AMENITIES ENJOYED BY THE LOCAL POPULATION WOULD NOT BE ADVERSELY AFFECTED.

POLICY RC1(B)

PROPOSALS FOR NEW OUTDOOR SPORT AND RECREATION FACILITIES WILL BE PERMITTED WHERE THE DEVELOPMENT WOULD COMPLY WITH ALL THE FOLLOWING CRITERIA:-

1. THE DEVELOPMENT WOULD BE READILY ACCESSIBLE FOR POTENTIAL USERS, AND MEET THE NEEDS OF THE NON-CAR TRAVELLER;

2. THE HIGHWAY NETWORK IS CAPABLE OF ACCOMMODATING THE TRAFFIC GENERATED BY THE PROPOSAL WITHOUT AN UNACCEPTABLE EFFECT ON TRAFFIC FLOW AND PATTERNS, SAFETY, ENERGY USE OR OTHER EMISSIONS;

3. IT WILL HAVE SATISFACTORY CAR PARKING;

4. THE DEVELOPMENT CAN BE SYMPATHETICALLY ASSIMILATED INTO THE ENVIRONMENT IN TERMS OF SITING, SCALE, DESIGN AND LANDSCAPING;

5. THE FUNCTIONING OF OTHER USES AND THE EXISTING AMENITIES ENJOYED BY THE LOCAL POPULATION WOULD NOT BE ADVERSELY AFFECTED.

9.3.4. Policy RC1(A and B) provides the criteria against which any proposed sport and recreation facilities will be assessed. Leisure facilities and indoor sport and recreation development will therefore be assessed under the terms of Part A of Policy RC1, whereas proposals for outdoor sport and recreation will be assessed under Part B of the same Policy. The Policy aims to encourage a diverse range of sport and recreation facilities at appropriate locations within the County Borough whilst ensuring that proposed developments are of a high standard in terms of layout, scale and design; and satisfy the Council’s approved guidelines on car parking requirements. The Council will encourage and adopt a positive approach towards the diversification of farm enterprises and the rural economy through appropriate sport and recreation uses. With respect to criterion 1 of Policy RC1(B) relating to facilities in the countryside it is recognised that they may not be accessible by public transport.

9.3.5. Sport and recreation developments in the countryside should normally be limited to those for which such locations are appropriate. Uses such as golf courses, driving ranges, horse related activities, commercial leisure developments etc are subject to appropriate safeguards in line with National Guidance and the Environmental Policies of the Plan. The weight of any restriction will increase with the environmental importance of the location within which the development is proposed. The conversion and improvement of suitable redundant buildings to sport and recreational usage will also be encouraged providing they do not conflict with Policy RC1.

9.3.6. It is important that the needs of minorities are not overlooked; the disabled, the elderly and those without access to a car. By adapting existing facilities, and by the careful design of new ones, the recreation needs of the disabled and the elderly can be met. Those members of the community without cars obviously can only participate with ease in recreation where the facilities are close of their homes or to a public transport route. However, even the latter alternative may involve prohibitive costs, especially for family groups. Accordingly:-

9.3.7. SPORT AND RECREATION FOR THE DISABLED AND ELDERLY

POLICY RC2

SPORT AND RECREATION PROPOSALS WILL BE FAVOURED WHERE THEY MEET THE NEEDS OF THE DISABLED AND ELDERLY: -

1. BY ADAPTING EXISTING FACILITIES AND GIVING CAREFUL CONSIDERATION TO THE PROVISION OF NEW FACILITIES; AND

2. BY TAKING DUE ACCOUNT OF PUBLIC TRANSPORT SERVICES WHEN CONSIDERING THE PROVISION OF NEW FACILITIES.

9.3.8. Existing recreation facilities, such as playing fields, allotment gardens, play areas etc, whether users of land or buildings built or adapted for recreational use, represent substantial investments. They can, however, come under pressure for replacement by, for example, housing, industrial or retailing developments. Accordingly:-

9.3.9. PROTECTION OF RECREATIONAL FACILITIES

POLICY RC3

DEVELOPMENT WHICH ADVERSELY AFFECTS AN EXISTING OR PROPOSED RECREATION FACILITY, WHETHER FORMAL OR INFORMAL, WILL BE PERMITTED ONLY WHERE:-

1. THE DEVELOPER IS PREPARED TO PROVIDE ALTERNATIVE FACILITIES OF EQUIVALENT COMMUNITY BENEFIT; OR

2. IN THE VIEW OF THE LOCAL PLANNING AUTHORITY THERE IS AN EXCESS OF SUCH PROVISION IN THE AREA; OR

3. FACILITIES CAN BEST BE RETAINED AND ENHANCED THROUGH THE REDEVELOPMENT OF A SMALL PART OF THE SITE.

9.3.10. There may be exceptional circumstances where a recreational facility is redundant due to an excess of provision (due for example to population decline or general social change) and in such cases retention would not be necessary. Similarly, there may be instances where the siting of a particular facility is no longer appropriate, and re-location might be beneficial.

9.3.11. Sport and recreational facilities are provided by a variety of different agencies, with the Council playing a particularly important role. In the present economic situation, the opportunities for increasing the supply of new facilities are very limited. However, some facilities owned or used by organisations are not open to use by the general public and are not used to their full capacity. Joint provision and management can provide the opportunity to optimise the use of these facilities by making them available to the community, and can be seen as a means of sharing the costs of running them. As such:-

9.3.12. MULTI-USE OF SPORT AND RECREATIONAL FACILITIES

POLICY RC4

SPORT AND RECREATION PROPOSALS WHICH RESULT IN THE WIDER COMMUNITY USE OF BUILDINGS AND LAND WILL BE FAVOURED.

9.3.13. In this context, public multi-use of existing and proposed facilities has the double benefit of avoiding duplication of expenditure and protecting other land from development. Given the overall shortage of suitable large flat sites particularly in the Valley areas, the Council considers it essential to make the maximum use of existing resources and facilities with regard to playing fields and ancillary facilities. Policy RC4 encourages wherever possible, the provision of dual use facilities, thereby increasing recreation opportunities as well as economising on the uptake of development land.

9.4. Open Space

9.4.1. ‘Open Space’ is a generic term that encompasses Public Open Space (POS) and Outdoor Playing Space (OPS). Public Open Space (POS) is a useable green area where the public have a legitimate right of informal enjoyment. Outdoor Playing Space (OPS) consists of Outdoor Sport and Children’s Playing Space as defined by the NPFA. The NPFA defines Outdoor Playing Space as “space which is available for sport, active recreation or children’s play, which is of suitable size and nature for its intended purpose, and safely accessible and available to the general public.”

9.4.2. Policy RC5 sets out the basis upon which the Open Space requirement of all new housing developments will be assessed. It will apply to sites identified in the Plan and other housing sites which may emerge over the Plan Period.

9.4.3. PROVISION OF OPEN SPACE FOR NEW HOUSING DEVELOPMENTS

POLICY RC5

PROVISION OF A SATISFACTORY LEVEL AND STANDARD OF OUTDOOR SPORT AND CHILDREN’S PLAYING SPACE AND PUBLIC OPEN SPACE WILL BE REQUIRED FOR ALL NEW HOUSING DEVELOPMENTS.

9.4.4. The Council has become increasingly aware of the problems associated with the lack of Open Space in residential areas. Although the Council plays a major part in the provision of these facilities, there is a need for developers to include these facilities in their proposed housing schemes. Policy RC5 is designed to ensure that as the size and the population of settlements increase, the provision of Open Space keeps pace. In this respect, the Council will expect developers to enter into Planning Agreements/Obligations under Section 106 of the Town and Country Planning Act, 1990, where contributions will be required to remedy local or strategic deficiencies in recreation provision, and thereby secure the appropriate provision of such facilities; which shall be provided in accordance with NPFA standards, and the County Borough Council’s Supplementary Planning Guidance.

9.4.5. The Council’s proposed minimum standard of 2.4 hectares per 1000 population for ‘Open Space’ is derived from the NPFA’s recommendation for Outdoor Playing Space which includes Children’s Playing Space and Outdoor Sport and an additional requirement for Public Open Space. This minimum standard should be met or exceeded wherever possible in all new housing developments. Developers will be required to secure the provision of open space and other recreational facilities in accordance with planning conditions or through planning agreements/obligations. The exact requirements for each proposal will, thereby, be subject to agreement with the Council, and will address any community loss and/or increased deficiency in recreation provision resulting from the proposed development(s). Areas with existing deficiencies in recreation facilities are highlighted in the ensuing Policies of the UDP, and further baseline information regarding deficiencies and proposed provision of facilities can be obtained from the Council’s published SPG on ‘Public Open Space and Development’. Together, these documents provide clear guidance to developers as to what will be reasonably expected of them when the Council is considering open space provision in an area in relation to their proposals. Also, detailed design guidance and information on the amount and type of open space preferences are set out in greater detail in the relevant SPG document(s).

9.4.6. In some circumstances the particular characteristics of the site or of the development proposed may make a variation from the normal appropriate provision. For example, where development comprises or includes sheltered housing a more appropriate on-site amenity provision will be sought in place of the normal recreational space appropriate to family housing. Provision of Open Space for special needs groups housing will also be considered having regard to the needs of the occupiers of those developments.

9.4.7. Outdoor Playing Space provision will normally be sought within the development site. In certain circumstances where application of the Council’s standards are impractical e.g. the site is too small to provide a meaningful area of Outdoor Playing Space or perhaps where a site is adjacent or near to an existing area of Outdoor Playing Space capable, by improvement, of satisfying the Outdoor Playing Space requirements of the proposal, the Council may be prepared to negotiate off-site contributions directly related to the development. Furthermore, where a number of residential developments are proposed in one locality, consideration could be given to combining their Outdoor Playing Space provision to form a larger, more useable and more manageable area.

9.4.8. In all negotiations with developers the Council will satisfy itself that the Outdoor Playing Space benefits sought are reasonably related to the development and that the need for them arises from the development.

9.4.9. The Council’s Policy and Strategy Document “Development and Management of Children’s Play Areas” (Nov 1998) sets the parameters for a review of the level and standard of the current service and provides the framework for its future management and development. Periodic reviews of this policy will be carried out to ensure the continued evolution and improvement in line with developments in children’s play.

9.5. Outdoor Sport (youth & adult use)

9.5.1. The NPFA recommended advisory standard for Outdoor Sport is 1.6 -1.8 hectares per thousand of the population. Outdoor Sport includes:-

1. Facilities such as pitches, greens, courts, athletics tracks and miscellaneous sites such as croquet lawns and training areas owned by the County Borough Council;

2. Facilities described in 1 within the educational sector and which, as a matter of practice and policy, are available for public use;

3. Facilities described in 1 which are within the voluntary, private, industrial and commercial sectors, and serve the leisure needs for outdoor recreation of their members, or the public.

9.5.2. Included within this standard is a specific allocation of 1.2 hectares per thousand population for pitch sports. Playing fields and their associated facilities are the most extensive type of formal outdoor recreation facility, placing the greatest demand on the amount of land required. “Playing fields” in this context is used as a generic term for the space required for a number of organised recreational activities such as rugby, football, cricket, hockey, tennis, netball, bowls etc.

9.5.3. The need to target scarce resources means that the upgrading of existing pitches is currently taking priority over provision of new ones. New pitches will be developed on the land identified as resources become available, but this is likely to be limited within the plan period. More importantly, Policy RC6 gives the land long-term protection.

9.5.4. Ideally, the Plan should satisfy the recommended advisory standards by settlement in order to ensure a reasonable distribution of facilities. However, playing fields and their ancillary facilities require large areas of flat land which is at a premium. In view of land opportunities and constraints, and of the need to ensure reasonable distribution of facilities throughout the County Borough:-

9.5.5. GENERAL PROVISION OF PLAYING FIELDS & ASSOCIATED FACILITIES

POLICY RC6

LAND WILL BE ALLOCATED IN THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS FOR THE PROVISION OF PLAYING FIELDS AND ASSOCIATED FACILITIES:-

RC6(1)    PART OF THE INTERNATIONAL COLLIERY RECLAMATION SITE, BLAENGARW; (Link to Map 2 Central)
RC6(2)    PART OF THE FORMER CENTRAL WASHERY SITE, OGMORE VALE; (Link to Map 12 Central)
RC6(3)    PART OF FORMER CAERAU COLLIERY, CAERAU; (Link to Map 1 Central)
RC6(4)    SOUTH OF NEUADD DOMOS FARM, CWMFELIN; (Link to Map 10)
RC6(5)    WEST OF TUDOR PARK, YSTRAD CELIN, MAESTEG; (Link to Map 5 West)
RC6(6)    FORMER MAESTEG WASHERY SITE, MAESTEG; (Link to Map 5 Central)
RC6(7)    SOUTH PLATEAU OF FORMER COEGNANT COLLIERY, NANTYFFYLLON; (Link to Map 5 Central)
RC6(8)    HEOL TY GWYN INDUSTRIAL ESTATE, NANTYFFYLLON; (Link to Map 5 West)
RC6(9)    WEST OF GRASSHOLM WAY, REST BAY, NOTTAGE; (Link to Map 25 West)
RC6(10)  NORTH OF LOCKS LANE, NOTTAGE; (Link to Map 29 West)
RC6(11)  NEWBRIDGE FIELDS EXTENSION, BRIDGEND; (Link to Map 27)
RC6(12)  HEOL WEST PLAS, BRIDGEND; (Link to Map 21 East)
RC6(13)  BRYNCETHIN CLAY PITS, BRYNCETHIN; (Link to Map 15 East)
RC6(14)  BRYNDU, KENFIG HILL AND PYLE; (Link to Map 19 East)
RC6(15)  SOUTH OF WAUNBANT ROAD, KENFIG HILL AND PYLE; (Link to Map 20 West)
RC6(16)  EAST OF CROWN ROAD, WAUN CIMLA, KENFIG HILL AND PYLE; (Link to Map 20 West)
RC6(17)  MAENDY FARM, YNYSAWDRE; (Link to Map 15 Central)
RC6(18)  PANDY PARK EXTENSION, YNYSAWDRE; (Link to Map 21 Central)
RC6(19)  LAND BETWEEN HEOL FACH AND M4 MOTORWAY, NORTH CORNELLY; (Link to Map 19)
RC6(20)  NORTH OF PENYFAI HOSPITAL, PENYFAI. (Link to Map 21 Central)

9.6. Children’s Playing Space

9.6.1. The Council is of the opinion that the play areas to be provided by Policies RC7 and RC8 in conjunction with those provided by Policy RC5 will satisfy both the current under provision, and future demand, for this type of facility over the plan period.

9.6.2. The NPFA recommended advisory standard for Children’s Playing Space is 0.6 – 0.8 hectares per thousand of the population. Children’s Playing Space includes:-

1. Outdoor equipped playgrounds for children of whatever age;

2. Other designated play facilities for children which offer specific opportunity for outdoor play, such as adventure playgrounds, ‘street’ sport etc;

3. Casual or informal playing space within housing areas.

9.6.3. The requirement should be achieved where appropriate by the provision of Local Areas of Play (LAP's), Local Equipped Areas of Play (LEAP’s) and/or Neighbourhood Equipped Areas of Play (NEAP’s) (including kickabout areas), in locations based upon walking time, and providing the balance as casual playing space within areas of amenity open space within the overall development which are in ‘safe’ locations. Detailed information on design standards will be provided as supplementary planning guidance that accords with NPFA guidance. Over and above these classifications the Council has identified and provided a handful of Strategic Equipped Areas of Play (SEAP’s) which it seeks to manage for its own purposes.

9.6.4. Whilst the provision of adequate areas of playing space is a vital community requirement, its proper distribution and location, as well as ease of access, is also of great importance if it is to serve its purpose properly and to attract maximum use.

9.6.5. Children’s playgrounds can often be accommodated on plots of land whose shape, size, or topography would be unsuitable for other land uses. They should be sited so that they do not adversely affect the amenity of nearby residents and are not themselves affected by proximity to roads, railways or rivers which might cause danger to children.

9.6.6. Ideally the Council would wish to achieve the NPFA standard throughout the County Borough. However, in many residential areas there is an existing deficiency in play space and in some locations density of development has meant that sufficient suitable space to construct an equipped children’s play area is no longer available. Areas which have been identified as being deficient in play areas are detailed in Policies RC7 and RC8. (Also refer to paragraph 9.4.5 earlier). To attempt to achieve the recommended standards:-

9.6.7. GENERAL PROVISION OF CHILDREN’S PLAY SPACE

POLICY RC7

THE COUNTY BOROUGH COUNCIL WILL SEEK TO REMEDY THE DEFICIENCY IN CHILDREN’S PLAY SPACE DURING THE PERIOD OF THE UDP, PARTICULARLY IN THE FOLLOWING AREAS:-

ABERKENFIG
BRACKLA
BRIDGEND
BRYNCOCH
BRYNMENYN
BRYNTIRION
CAERAU                            CAERAU ROAD;
CEFN CRIBBWR
COYCHURCH
GLYNOGWR
HEOL-Y-CYW
KENFIG HILL & PYLE        BRYNDU ROAD;
LALESTON
LITCHARD
LLANGEINOR                    CRAIGLAS;
MAESTEG                         GARTH, NEATH ROAD, YR YSFA, BRYN CELIN, LLWYDARTH ROAD;
NANTYFFYLLON               GARNWEN ROAD, CAVAN ROW;
NEWTON DANYGRAIG,     BEACH ROAD, PWLL-Y-WAUN;
NORTH CORNELLY           SOUTH & EAST;
NOTTAGE
OGMORE VALE
PANTYRAWEL
PENCOED                         HENDRE ROAD, EAST PENCOED;
PENYFAI
PORTHCAWL                   WEST DRIVE/ESPLANADE, LOCKS COMMON, SANDY BAY;
PONTRHYDYCYFF
PONTYCYMMER               OXFORD STREET;
SHWT
SOUTH CORNELLY
WERN FAWR
WYNDHAM

9.6.8. GENERAL PROVISION OF KICKABOUT AREAS

POLICY RC8

THE COUNTY BOROUGH COUNCIL WILL SEEK TO REMEDY THE DEFICIENCY IN KICKABOUT AREAS DURING THE PERIOD OF THE UDP, PARTICULARLY IN THE FOLLOWING AREAS:-

ABERKENFIG
BETTWS
BLACKMILL
BLAENGARW
BRIDGEND
BRYNCETHIN
BRYNMENYN
BRYNTIRION
CAERAU
CEFN CRIBBWR
COITY
COYCHURCH
CWMFELIN
EVANSTOWN
KENFIG
LALESTON
LLANGEINOR
MAESTEG
NANTYFFYLLON
NANTYMOEL
NEWTON
NORTH CORNELLY
NOTTAGE
OGMORE VALE
PANTYRAWEL/LEWISTOWN
PENCOED
PONTRHYDYCYFF
PONTYCYMMER
PORTHCAWL
PYLE
SOUTH CORNELLY
TONDU
WYNDHAM

9.7. Public Open Space

9.7.1. Public Open Space is an important facility associated with residential areas and should always be provided on-site however small the housing scheme. It can make a significant visual and environmental impact in urban areas and in some instances can also provide for passive or informal recreation. Regardless of their scale and use, areas identified as Public Open Space have a major role to play in improving the quality of urban life.

9.7.2. In view of the difficulty involved in measuring all Public Open Space areas in practice and identifying demand for such facilities, it is not possible to propose a specific standard as Public Open Spaces are often associated with more formal recreational facilities such as playing fields and playgrounds.

9.7.3. Incidental parcels of land on, for example, residential development sites can be landscaped and provided with seating facilities to create pleasant spaces to enjoy passive recreation. In addition, Public Open Space often adds to the visual and environmental quality of the built environment through contrast with adjacent development. It is therefore proposed:-

9.7.4. GENERAL PROVISION OF PUBLIC OPEN SPACE

POLICY RC9

THE COUNTY BOROUGH COUNCIL WILL PROMOTE THE PROVISION OF PUBLIC OPEN SPACE WHEREVER SUITABLE OPPORTUNITIES ARISE. IN THIS RESPECT, THE FOLLOWING AREAS ARE SPECIFICALLY ALLOCATED:-

RC9(1)    THE COED, MAESTEG; (Link to Map 5 Central)
RC9(2)    BLAENGARW AND PONTYCYMMER LINEAR PARK; (Link to Map 2 Central)
RC9(3)    PART OF FORMER WESTERN COLLIERY SITE, NANTYMOEL; (Link to Map 7 Central)
RC9(4)    OGMORE VALLEY LINEAR PARK; (Link to Map 7 Central)
RC9(5)    PART OF FORMER CENTRAL WASHERY SITE, OGMORE VALE; (Link to Map 12 Central)
RC9(6)    DIMBATH AVENUE, GLYNLLAN, BLACKMILL; (Link to Map 12 Central)
RC9(7)    THE COLLWYN, PYLE; (Link to Map 19 Central)
RC9(8)    HEOL WASTAD WAUN, PENCOED; (Link to Map 22 East)
RC9(9)    NANT HEOL Y GEIFR, PENCOED; (Link to Map 22 East)
RC9(10)  PWLL-Y-WAUN, PORTHCAWL; (Link to Map 29 East)
RC9(11)  LOCKS COMMON, PORTHCAWL; (Link to Map 29 West)
RC9(12)  TREMAINS WOOD, BRACKLA, BRIDGEND; (Link to Map 28 West)
RC9(13)  BRACKLA RIDGE AND ASSOCIATED AREAS, BRIDGEND; (Link to Map 27 East)
RC9(14)  LAND ADJACENT TO WORDSWORTH AVENUE AND HEOL Y NANT, CEFN GLAS; (Link to Map 27)
RC9(15)  LAND WEST OF THE PROPOSED COMMUNITY CENTRE, PENYFAI; (Link to Map 21 Central)
RC9(16)  LAND ADJACENT TO THE PHEASANT, PENYFAI; (Link to Map 21 Central)
RC9(17)  PART OF FORMER COITY SIDINGS, BRIDGEND; (Link to Map 21 Central)
RC9(18)  LAND AT MAENDY FARM, YNYSAWDRE. (Link to Map 15)

9.7.5. In considering the development of land for residential purposes, due account should be taken of the need to provide Public Open Space in accordance with Policy RC5 (and, where appropriate, Policy RC9).

9.8. Informal Recreation

9.8.1. It is generally recognised that informal recreation is the most popular form of outdoor leisure time activity in Britain and as leisure time increases, the demand for informal recreation facilities will also grow. While many local people are aware of the informal recreational opportunities in their area, they are often not aware of the facilities immediately beyond their local environs. Accordingly, the potential for informal recreation is not being fully realised. The further development of existing and new facilities, as well as publicity, is therefore required to encourage more members of the community and visitors to use and enjoy the natural environment.

9.8.2. The Council provides a number of recreational areas which allows the visitor the opportunity of enjoying the countryside at a number of different levels from formally managed country parks to informal picnic sites and footpaths. Bryngarw House is the site of the only Country Park in the County Borough. It has forty six hectares of ground for recreational use in the form of walks and picnic sites through its varied woodland, gardens and along the banks of the Garw River. The Park has the role of acting as a “gateway” into the wider countryside and improving public awareness of the countryside in general. Sites managed more specifically for another purpose, such as tourism and heritage sites, also offer informal recreational opportunities. Included in this category are the Ogwr Ridgeway Walk, Coed Morgannwg Way, Craig Y Aber, Park Pond Nature Reserve and various sites along the Glamorgan Heritage Coast, including Dunraven Park.

9.8.3. For a great many people the ability to walk, sit, look at a view, to picnic or simply to visit places is their main enjoyment of the countryside and forms a major part of their informal recreation activities. The most popular areas for this type of activity are the uplands, river corridors and forestry areas of the County Borough as well as the coastal regions and the villages and countryside of the County Borough.

9.8.4. It is considered that the potential for nature trails, signposting, picnic areas, scenic country drives, small car parks etc, is not being fully realised throughout the County Borough and further development and publicity of such facilities is required to encourage people to enjoy the countryside. Therefore:-

9.8.5. GENERAL PROVISION OF INFORMAL RECREATIONAL AREAS

POLICY RC10

THE COUNTY BOROUGH COUNCIL WILL PROMOTE AND ENCOURAGE THE USE OF THE FOLLOWING AREAS FOR INFORMAL RECREATION:-

RC10(1)    CWMDU BOWL & FORMER ST. JOHN’S COLLIERY; (Link to Map 5 East)
RC10(2)    THE DARREN VALLEY; (Link to Map 5 East)
RC10(3)    CWM SYCHBANT; (Link to Map 5 West)
RC10(4)    MYNYDD CAERAU; (Link to Map 1 East)
RC10(5)    GARN WEN; (Link to Map 5 West)
RC10(6)    BLAENOGWR; (Link to Map 3 Central)
RC10(7)    WAUN CIMLA; (Link to Map 20 Central)
RC10(8)    CRAIG Y PARCAU; (Link to Map 27 Central)
RC10(9)    Y CWM BLAENGARW; (Link to Map 2 Central)
RC10(10)  GARW FECHAN; (Link to Map 11 Central)
RC10(11)  CEFN MACHEN WOODS; (Link to Map 15 East)
RC10(12)  CWM DIMBATH; (Link to Map 12 East)
RC10(13)  CWM Y FUWCH; (Link to Map 7 Central)
RC10(14)  TONDU IRONWORKS; (Link to Map 15 West)
RC10(15)  VILLAGE FARM WOODLAND AND POND; (Link to Map 19 East)
RC10(16)  FORMER GARW COLLIERY SITE, BLAENGARW; (Link to Map 2 Central)
RC10(17)  PART OF FORMER COEGNANT COLLIERY SITE, CAERAU. (Link to Map 1 Central)

9.9. Public Rights of Way

9.9.1. There is a significant and growing use of Public Rights of Way for recreational use. The Countryside Council for Wales regards the Right of Way network as the single most important means by which the public can enjoy the countryside. Its document “Priorities in Action” identifies the improvement of Public Rights of Way as a key task. The Council fully supports the aim of the Countryside Council for Wales to create a Welsh network of Public Rights of Way, and will work with this organisation, the Ramblers Association, and Groundwork Bridgend in promoting an access network within the County Borough.

9.9.2. The majority of paths in the County Borough have existed for at least one hundred years. Their purpose was to link communities together and often to provide routes from peoples homes to their place of work. The system of paths evolved in a vastly different social and economic era and consequently bear little relationship to present land use patterns or the demand, existing and potential, for their use.

9.9.3. There are over 300 miles of footpaths and nearly 100 miles of bridleways in the County Borough. It is the responsibility of the Council to keep these routes in reasonable repair and deal with landowners who wilfully obstruct or neglect the routes on their land. The Council will investigate the possibility of providing new Rights of Way in acknowledgement that these are very popular recreational facilities. Priority will be given to those routes which are relevant to present day recreational needs, in particular those within walking distance of residential areas and those areas of the open countryside which are readily accessible by car and public transport.

9.10. Community Routes

9.10.1. Although the existing footpath network throughout the County Borough is extensive, the routes available for other forms of non-motorised transport are limited both in number and distribution. Whilst a number of “Community Routes” are already in existence, the Council proposes that a further number of “Community Routes” will be created throughout the County Borough to provide safe routes within, and between, settlements and points of interest. These routes have suitable gradients and surfaces to facilitate their use by all members of the community and will provide the opportunity for linear green spaces to be created in urban areas. Where possible these routes will utilise the existing Rights of Way network, derelict land, river corridors and former transport corridors which include disused railway land.

9.10.2. GENERAL PROVISION OF COMMUNITY ROUTES

POLICY RC11

THE COUNTY BOROUGH COUNCIL WILL PROMOTE AND ENCOURAGE THE PROVISION OF COMMUNITY ROUTES BETWEEN THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS: -

BLACKMILL AND EVANSTOWN;
BLAENGARW AND BRYNMENYN;
BRIDGEND AND BRYNMENYN;
CAERAU AND BRYNMENYN;
BRYNMENYN AND WERN TARW VIA HEOL Y CYW;
KENFIG POOL AND BRYNMENYN, VIA WAUN CIMLA;
NANTYMOEL AND BRYNMENYN.

9.10.3. The Council has the responsibility for identifying the location of each route and will also examine the possibility of expanding the network of Community Routes throughout the County Borough, whilst Groundwork Bridgend will be involved in partnership with the Council to secure finance and develop the Community Routes. In this sense, the routes of all Community Routes designated under Policy RC11, as shown on the Proposals Map, except those sections which have already been constructed, and/or have the benefit of planning permission, should be regarded as being ‘aspirational’ on the part of the Council. From the Council’s viewpoint, the routes of all Community Routes, as shown on the Proposals Map, are ‘indicative of their most desirable locations in principle’ on the basis of the best available information available to it when the UDP was prepared. In due course, the final locations of all Community Routes will reflect the outcome of planning applications for their proposed development, which will reflect the Local Planning Authority’s decisions having taken into account all detailed material planning considerations, for example, local amenity considerations, drainage investigations, accessibility audits etc. It is the holistic approach taken by the Council to Community Route provision in the County Borough which the UDP seeks to convey.

9.11. Cycle Paths

9.11.1. Cycling as a means of transport and as a recreational activity is becoming increasingly popular. However, the increase in traffic has made the conditions on many roads less attractive through, for example, increased noise and pollution, and indeed dangerous for cyclists.

9.11.2. Most highway improvements over the last few decades have been designed either to speed up the flow of vehicles or increase the capacity of roads, both of which have had serious repercussions for cyclists. Of particular concern are roundabouts, gyratories, one way systems, and slip roads. Highway engineers should consider the needs of cyclists when designing road layouts. Ideally cyclists should have their own carriageway taken from the roadspace or their own paths, completely separated from the highway.

9.11.3. Suitably located cycle routes offer great potential for local journeys to work, shopping, and safe routes to schools, as well as for recreational use, and can have a wider potential use as a tourist attraction. In assessing the potential of any proposed cycle route, the Council will consider the following criteria:-

• Is the route accessible to the local community for journeys to work, shops, school or recreation or for recreation itself?

• Can it be easily linked to the wider cycle path network?

• Will it take advantage of the opportunities presented by, for example, land reclamation or highway improvement schemes?

• Does it have potential as a tourist attraction in its own right or provide access to, or links between, sites of tourist interest?

9.11.4. In the long term, in addition to the Community Routes detailed in Policy RC11, the Council intends to provide a variety of cycle paths throughout the County Borough. During the timespan of the Plan:-

9.11.5. GENERAL PROVISION OF CYCLE ROUTES

POLICY RC12

THE COUNTY BOROUGH COUNCIL WILL PROMOTE AND ENCOURAGE THE PROVISION OF CYCLE ROUTES BETWEEN THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS WHERE PRACTICABLE:-

BRIDGEND AND PENCOED;
BRIDGEND AND BRYNMENYN;
BRIDGEND AND PORTHCAWL;
BRIDGEND AND THE VALE OF GLAMORGAN.

9.11.6. The Council will prepare Planning Briefs indicating the precise location of each route following close consultation with various bodies including the Vale of Glamorgan County Borough Council regarding the adjoining Cycle Route Network. In many cases there will be opportunities to combine these cycle paths with community routes.

9.12. National Cycle Network

9.12.1. The Council are working in partnership with the South Wales Cycle Route Consortium in order to implement and promote the National Cycle Network Millennium Project in South Wales, where the route between Kidwelly and Newport is known as the Celtic Trail/Lon Geltaidd. The Route runs east to west across the County Borough, from the eastern boundary at Gilfach Goch through Blackmill, Brynmenyn, Tondu and Kenfig Hill. There will be significant tourism and economic benefits of implementing the route as well as benefits to the local community in providing a sustainable transport and leisure route. Development proposals for accommodation or food and drink establishments associated with the needs of cyclists using the national cycle network will be supported in principle. However such proposals must also accord with other relevant policies of the Plan, in particular, the policies contained in the Environment, and Tourism and Leisure Chapters of the UDP, and any other pertinent development control criteria.

9.12.2. PROVISION FOR THE NATIONAL CYCLE NETWORK

POLICY RC13

THE COUNTY BOROUGH COUNCIL WILL PROMOTE AND ENCOURAGE THE PROVISION OF THE NATIONAL CYCLE NETWORK BETWEEN THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS WHERE PRACTICABLE: -

BLACKMILL AND EVANSTOWN;
BRYNMENYN AND BLACKMILL;
KENFIG HILL AND BRYNMENYN;
BRIDGEND AND BRYNMENYN;
BRIDGEND AND PORTHCAWL;
KENFIG HILL AND PORTHCAWL.

9.12.3. Where land is owned by a third party it is the policy of the Council to secure an interest in the land by means of either Footpath Creation Agreements or Footpath Creation Orders. The newly registered public footpaths are then converted to Cycle Tracks under the terms of the Cycle Tracks Act 1984. Both Public Footpaths and Cycle Tracks are defined as Highways in the Highways Act 1980. Where the route runs over land which is Highway Verge Section 65 of the Highways Act 1980 enables the Council to construct a cycle track in or by the side of a highway maintainable at the public expense. It will not be necessary, therefore, to make a Creation Order for that particular section of the route.

9.13. Allotment Gardens

9.13.1. Allotments have the dual function of being an important form of adult recreation as well as a useful source of fresh produce.

9.13.2. The provision of allotments in the County Borough is related to expressed demand. At present there is no evidence of any excess demand that cannot be met from the existing supply of allotments. Due to the uncertainty of the demand for allotments, actual sites for further allotment gardens will not be allocated in the Plan. However:-

9.13.3. PROVISION FOR ALLOTMENT GARDENS

POLICY RC14

THE PROVISION OF ALLOTMENTS ON SUITABLE SITES THROUGHOUT THE COUNTY BOROUGH WILL BE FAVOURED WHEREVER A PROVEN NEED FOR SUCH FACILITIES IS DEMONSTRATED.

9.13.4. Policy RC14 will operate, providing locational and detailed site and environmental considerations are satisfactory, and such sites are not otherwise required for any alternative specific use proposed in the Plan.

9.13.5. Given the progressive loss of ‘Private’ and ‘Temporary’ allotment sites, every endeavour should be made to provide a replacement site. This reflects the Council’s desire to ensure the availability of, and adequate protection for, good quality open spaces within our urban areas.

9.13.6. PROTECTION OF ALLOTMENT GARDENS

POLICY RC15

THE DEVELOPMENT OF ALLOTMENTS FOR OTHER USES WILL NOT BE PERMITTED UNLESS ALTERNATIVE EQUIVALENT PROVISION, OF SIMILAR SIZE AND QUALITY, CAN BE MADE IN THE VICINITY, OR IT CAN BE DEMONSTRATED THAT THE ALLOTMENTS ARE SURPLUS TO LONG TERM REQUIREMENTS.

9.13.7. Replacement sites are required to be not normally more than three quarters of a mile from the centre of demand, although this distance may be increased if the plot-holders are willing to travel further.

9.14. Indoor Recreation Facilities

9.14.1. Multipurpose indoor recreation centres have done most to influence the public’s perception of expected and desired opportunities to play and learn sport. They provide opportunities for both individuals and groups of all ages and abilities to participate in a wide variety of recreational activities. Unmet demand for sports halls in the County Borough, as identified by the Education and Leisure Directorate, justifies the need for the identification of an additional facility at Brackla, Bridgend. Therefore:-

9.14.2. PROVISION OF A MULTI-PURPOSE HALL AT BRACKLA

POLICY RC16  (Link to Map 27 East)

DEVELOPMENT OF A MULTI-PURPOSE HALL AT BRACKLA WILL BE FAVOURED.

9.14.3. In addition to the main recreation centres, it is recognised that the smaller more localised Community Centres have an important role to play in the provision of recreational facilities. As their functions extend beyond the field of sport and recreation, all policies relating to this topic have been included in the Chapter relating to Social and Community Facilities.

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