Connecting Green Communities.
A GREENSPACE STRATEGY FOR BOLE HILLS & BEYOND
02
Danting Chen Greg Deeprose Chenhao Hui Amy Lee Puzhen Meng
Contents. Introduction Site Survey & Analysis SWOT Analysis
Greenspace Audit Quantity, Quality & Accessibility
Vision Strategy Action Plan Summary References
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Introduction. Location •
In the North-West of Sheffield.
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Study area contains mostly residential parts of Hillsborough, Walkley, Broomhill, Crookes and Stannington.
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Sandwiched between the Peak District and the City Centre.
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The Rivers Rivelin and Loxley act as green corridors that connects the study area to the Peak District.
Why develop a Green Space Strategy? • Sheffield Local Development Framework identifies green space as “a vital and much valued part of the city, contributing to health and well-being and the distinctive character of neighbourhoods” •
The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) claims that “Planning policies should be based on robust and up‑to‑date assessments of the needs for open space, sports and recreation facilities and opportunities for new provision” INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Survey & Analysis.
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
History. Bolehills •
Quarried for sandstone in 1855
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Used as a place for recuperation of sick workers during the industrial revolution.
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Purchased by the City Council in 1899.
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Quarrying ceased in 1914 but remnants can still be seen today.
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From the 1960’s onwards, the park became more of a recreational facility, and has hosted pitches for field hockey and cricket.
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A BMX track was added in the 1990’s and the park has remained similar ever since.
NE2 3PN, Flickr
Sheffield History Forums
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
History. The Rivelin Valley •
The Rivelin Valley is an important part of Sheffields industrial history.
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From the 16th to the 20th century, the Rivelin hosted 20 mills and 21 dams that supported industries such as cutlery grinding, paper mills and corn mills.
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Many of the remnants of these mills are present along the river edge.
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History walks occur along the Rivelin valley on a regular basis.
Sheffield Timewalk
Sheffield History Forums
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Green Spaces. Legend
Overview •
Green space is generally oriented around the river valleys.
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Ponderosa, Crookes Valley Park and Weston Park are on the South-Eastern boundary of the study area.
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There are large amount of allotments.
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There is a clear imbalance of provision of green space within the study area.
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Topography. Legend
Overview •
The topography is characterised by river valleys.
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There is a vast topographic change within the study area.
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There are several steep slopes that make accessibility difficult.
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The topography makes some of the area, particularly Malin Bridge, vulnerable to flooding.
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Soils. Legend
Overview •
Present within the study area are a wide range of soils, varying from clay, loam, sand and silt.
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The soil types will affect the vegetation types that can be used.
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Sandy soil types explains the presence of heathland and impacts upon where it could be expanded or introduced.
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Vegetation Types. Legend
Overview •
High quantity of improved grassland, which contains very little ecological value.
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Broadleaved woodland also found in high quantities across the study area.
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Heathland is rare and valuable within an urban setting.
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Much of the woodland is concentrated within the river valleys.
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Key Habitat Areas: Heathland. Legend
Overview •
The Heathland within Bolehills is currently poorly managed and at risk of being lost.
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Heathland identified by the National and Sheffield Habitat Action Plans (HAP) as significant. The UK holds 20% of the world’s lowland heathland.
Key Species •
Key species identified within the UK Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) found in Heathland: - Song Thrush - Bullfinch (Decreasing Population) - Linnet (Decreasing Population) - Green Woodpecker - Yellowhammer (Decreasing Population) - Tree Pipit (Decreasing Population) - Small Heath Butterfly
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Transport & Circulation. Legend
Overview •
Fragmented Public Right of Way network.
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The vast majority of cycle routes are recommended, but not officially signed.
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High quantity of bus stops, tram access also nearby.
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Lack of car parking opportunities - difficult to attract people to the area by car.
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Many paths within green spaces can only be used when it is dry. A more consistently accessible right of way system would be beneficial.
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Sensory: Views. Overview •
The dramatic topography means that several long-distance views are available from certain parts of the study area.
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These views help to give the area a distinct character, and any proposals must be sensitive to this.
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Sensory: Views. Overview •
Certain measures can be taken to frame existing vistas or create new ones.
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Many of the green spaces within the study area can be seen from afar, meaning their impact is on more than just the immediate surroundings.
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Sensory: Views. Overview •
Available vistas from pedestrian and cycle connections are also important to consider.
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Attractive views can have a major influence on the popularity of green space, but don’t cost anything.
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Social: Who Uses Green Space? Natural England MENE •
The Natural England Monitor of Engagement with the Natural Environment (MENE) survey identifies who, how and why people use green space.
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Different age groups use green space for different reasons, and this diversity should be considered within the social context of the study area.
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Older, more affluent people are more likely to consistently use green spaces.
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There has been a significant increase in health/ exercise as a reason for using green space.
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The survey highlights that the vast majority of the population value their local green spaces.
Sheffield Open Space Strategy •
Identifies the primary reasons for residents to visit green and open spaces were simply to go for a walk, to relax or to improve health.
Images referenced from Natural England (2013)
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Social: Age Under 5. Legend
Overview •
Children mostly concentrated to the north of the study area.
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Areas with less than average numbers of children still need to be catered for.
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High amounts of children under five would suggest the need to also cater for parents.
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Social: Age Under 20. Legend
Overview •
Large student village in Endcliffe may explain high levels of under 20’s in that neighbourhood.
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Numbers are generally below the Sheffield average.
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Social: Age Over 75. Legend
Overview •
Large elderly population to the west of the study area.
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Natural England MENE suggests older people use the natural environment for health reasons and to enjoy wildlife - opportunities for this should be oriented towards the western part of the study area.
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Social: Percentage of BAME Schoolchildren. Legend
Overview •
Natural England MENE identifies BAME communities as less likely to use the natural environment.
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High levels of BAME schoolchildren will indicate towards a large BAME community in the future.
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Levels are generally low-average, except in the far east of the study area.
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BAME groups can contribute towards a rich and diverse range of events and festivals.
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Social: Indicators of Multiple Deprivation Score. Legend
Overview •
Neighbourhoods within the study area generally fall within the city average.
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Natural England MENE identifies more affluent people as more likely to visit the natural environment.
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Wealthier neighbourhoods may be more inclined to contribute towards green space management.
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Social: Childhood Obesity. Legend
Overview •
Walkley, Crookesmoor and Woodland View show concerning levels of childhood obesity.
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The city average is 19.2% which suggests that even in areas that fall below the average, childhood obesity is still a major issue.
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Green space can play an important role in tackling childhood obesity through a change in lifestyle.
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Social: Life Expectancy. Legend
Overview •
Life expectancy can act as an indicator for general health and wellbeing.
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Neighbourhoods in the east of the study area are generally below the city average.
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Green space can play a direct role in increasing life expectancy, i.e. through increased exercise.
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It can also play an indirect role in increasing life expectancy, i.e. by reducing pollution.
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Local Schools. Legend
Overview •
Local educational institutions can provide a useful resource to green spaces.
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Local children can get involved in the design and implementation of natural areas and playspaces in a partnership that benefits the green space network and the local community.
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Involving local children in the process will form a long-standing sense of ownership which will help to increase both use and stewardship.
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Educating local children about the benefits of green space and the reasons behind it will help to engage them with their local spaces.
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Local Sports Clubs. Legend
Overview •
The local sports clubs undertake activities including bowls, BMXing, cycling and climbing.
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There is an uneven distribution of organised sport clubs.
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These groups could be consulted in conjunction with a green space strategy.
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They could also be useful as potential managers of green space, or as hosts of fundraising events.
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Local Plan Designations. Legend
Overview •
These designations are found within the Sheffield Local Plan, which is yet to be adopted, but provides an indication of the council’s intentions.
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The need to improve pedestrian and cycling routes has clearly been identified.
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Interventions within or around the conservation areas should be particularly sensitive to their context.
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The ecology of the local area is clearly significant from a planning perspective.
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District and Neighbourhood centres can form hubs for any future improved circulation network. INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Current Partners & Community Groups. Overview •
There are several active community groups which currently utilise and/or manage some of the green spaces within the study area. These include:
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Sheffield Health Walks Friends of the Bole Hills Friends of Walkley Cemetery Friends of Blake Street Nature Park Rivelin Valley Conservation Group The Sheffield Dirt Society Sheffield Ramblers Several separate allotment groups In addition to Sheffield City Council and the Parks and Countryside department.
Potential Issues •
Having so many groups has positives and negatives.
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Communication between groups could become inconsistent and fragmented.
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Many community groups might lack skills, funding and demographic diversity. INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Strengths.
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Weaknesses.
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Opportunities.
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Threats.
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Quantity Audit: Methodology.
Quantity | Quality | Accessibility
CABE Standards •
CABE set guideline target distances of: • Playspace: 100m • Allotments: 200m • Playground: 400m • Local Green Space: 400m • Park: 600m • Natural Green Space: 1500m
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Sheffield Development Framework Core Strategy • Within the Sheffield Development Framework Core Strategy, a quantitative shortage of green space is defined as less than 4ha per 1000 people •
There are an estimated 38,000 people within the study area, therefore 152ha of green space would be the target.
Recognising a Diversity in Function
• The quantitative audit has been split into four broad types: Allotments, Amenity Space, ‘Natural’ Space and Play Space, allowing for a Cemeteries have been classed as Local Green Spaces, with a target more detailed insight into the green space deficiencies within the study area. distance of 400m These have been adjusted to reflect the nature of the study area:
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‘Natural’ Green Spaces have been split into small and large: • Small ‘Natural’ Green Space: 500m • Large ‘Natural’ Green Space: 1500m
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Quantity Audit: Allotments. Legend
Analysis •
Provision of allotments is unevenly distributed throughout the study area.
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However, there appears to be a large amount of space devoted to allotments.
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Quantity Audit: Amenity Space. Legend
Analysis •
There are a few gaps in provision.
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However these are small in comparison to the study area.
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The presence of Weston Park and Crookes Valley Park will address the gap in provision in the South East.
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Despite appearing large, there are very few residential properties in the western gap.
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Quantity Audit: ‘Natural’ Space. Legend
Analysis •
The needs of the study area are comfortably being met in terms of the quantity of ‘natural’ green space.
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The presence of the Rivelin Valley means there is a high quantity of ‘natural’ green spaces within the area.
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CABE standards are generous in their recommended target distance of ‘natural’ green space.
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Quantity Audit: Play Space. Legend
Analysis •
There is clearly a significant deficiency in the provision of play space throughout the study area.
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The target distance for a playspace is significantly lower than that of a playground, but even if this was increased there would still be gaps in provision.
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The gaps in provision to the south are generally within neighbourhoods where there is a lower percentage of under 5’s.
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The gap in provision to the north includes part of Hillsborough, which has an exceptionally high number of under 5’s.
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Quantity Audit: Summary.
Quantity | Quality | Accessibility
Findings • •
There is clearly a shortage of play space which needs to be addressed.
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• The dramatic topography of the area means that quantitative standards may not be truly representative of community needs.
The study area is well catered for in terms of ‘natural’ green space. • •
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Limitations
There is a clear imbalance in provision of allotments.
121.8ha catering for 38,000 people does not meet the Sheffield Development Framework target of 4ha per 1000 people.
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Categorisation of green space is subjective and struggles to cater for multifunctionality. The audit methods don’t account for green spaces just outside the boundary which may cater for homes within the study area.
121.8ha would cater for 30,450 people. 152ha would be needed to cater for 38,000. A shortage of 30.2ha.
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Quality Audit: Methodology.
Quantity | Quality | Accessibility
CABE Space Standards •
CABE outline several factors that a quality audit should cover:
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Landscape Quality, Facilities, Maintenance, Management, Security & Safety and Natural Heritage
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Different criteria within these sections are scored out of 10. And averaged by section and overall.
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Criteria which doesn’t apply to a particular space has been discluded from the results in order to reduce anomalies.
Splitting the Study Area •
Due to clear distinctions in character, the study area has been split into two areas.
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This will enable a better distinction between the green space issues within the study area. INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Quality Audit: Results. West Side
East Side
Analysis • •
Landscape quality is significantly higher in the western side of the study area: 5.1 compared to 4.2. The general quality of green spaces on both sides of the study area can be described as fair to poor. •
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Facilities, and Security & Safety score the highest of all the categories.
Natural Heritage, which includes criteria such as nature conservation and sustainable management practices, is the lowest scoring category for both sides of the study area
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Quality Audit: Landscape Quality. West Side
East Side
Analysis • • •
Landscape quality is significantly higher in the eastern side of the study area.
The lowest scoring criteria for this category is the attractiveness of the spaces boundaries.
Scores for having a ‘variety of scales of space’ and a ‘rich and stimulating environment’ are also fairly low throughout the study area.
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Quality Audit: Management. West Side
East Side
Analysis • • •
Scores generally range from poor to fair.
‘Evidence of community involvement’ scores far higher in the eastern part of the study area.
‘Is there information to contact management services’ shows some of the lowest scores for both parts of the study area.
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Quality Audit: Summary.
Quantity | Quality | Accessibility
Findings •
Management criteria tend to score lowly compared to other categories.
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Access criteria also shows low scores, suggesting that this needs to be addressed.
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Safety & Security is the highest scoring criteria for both sides of the study area.
Limitations • •
Scoring for each criteria is subjective.
The same criteria has been applied to all types of green space, which fails to account for the fact that different green space types may have different priorities.
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Audits carried out in winter may not give a true reflection of how the spaces are perceived during the times they are most used.
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Natural Heritage, which includes criteria such as nature conservation and sustainable management practices, is the lowest scoring category for both sides of the study area. Suggesting that there is clear room for improvement in terms of sustainable management of habitats.
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Accessibility Audit: Methodology.
Quantity | Quality | Accessibility
CABE Space Standards •
Accessibility criteria is found within CABE Space quality criteria.
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The Access category has been broken down into four criteria: •
Are entrances well located and accessible? • Are entrances welcoming? • Is the infrastructure suitable for disabled access? • Does signage communicate effectively? • •
Different criteria within these sections are scored out of 10. And averaged by section and overall. Criteria which doesn’t apply to a particular space has been discluded from the results in order to reduce anomalies.
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The study area has been split into East and West for the same reasons as the quality audit.
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Accessibility Audit: Results. West Side
East Side
Analysis •
Both sides of the study area struggle to cater for disabled access. This may largely be due to steep topography and the rural nature of some of the sites. •
Effective communication of access through signage is significantly worse on the western side of the study area compared to the east. •
All of the criteria scores range from poor to fair.
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Accessibility Audit: Summary.
Quantity | Quality | Accessibility
Findings •
Accessibility is clearly an issue within the study area.
Limitations •
Scoring for each criteria is subjective.
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Disabled access is particularly problematic, but steps to address this • The same criteria has been applied to all types of green space, which may be difficult due to the topography of the study area. fails to account for the fact that different green space types may have different priorities. • Welcoming entrances would greatly improve the popularity and perception of green spaces, and improvements should be encouraged. • Accessibility has been assessed as a branch of quality, which may not comprehensively cover it as a feature in its own right. • Effective communication through signage must be dealt with, particularly in the Western side of the study area. • Audits carried out in winter may not give a true reflection of how the spaces are perceived during the times they are most used.
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Vision. “The local green spaces will be the pride of the community.They will be high quality, accessible places that provide a diverse range of uses for people whilst connecting key wildlife habitats.The local people will influence the future of their green spaces, creating a long-standing sense of ownership and stewardship.”
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Strategy. Policy Justification •
The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) states that:
“69. The planning system can play an important role in facilitating social interaction and creating healthy, inclusive communities. Local planning authorities should create a shared vision with communities of the residential environment and facilities they wish to see. To support this, local planning authorities should aim to involve all sections of the community in the development of Local Plans and in planning decisions, and should facilitate neighbourhood planning. Planning policies and decisions, in turn, should aim to achieve places which promote:” “73. Access to high quality open spaces and opportunities for sport and recreation can make an important contribution to the health and wellbeing of communities” “109. The planning system should contribute to and enhance the natural and local environment by minimising impacts on biodiversity and providing net gains in biodiversity where possible, contributing to the Government’s commitment to halt the overall decline in biodiversity, including by establishing coherent ecological networks that are more resilient to current and future pressures;”
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Address the Imbalance in Provision of Green Space.
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Improve the Access and Legibility of Routes between Green Space.
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Conserve and Enhance Existing Ecological Links and Promote Biodiversity.
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Improve Community Involvement and Local Sense of Ownership.
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Management. • • • •
Community & ‘Friends of ’ groups Environmental trusts & charities Multi-agency public sector e.g. Groundwork Landscape managers
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• • • • • •
Community & ‘Friends of ’ groups Environmental trusts & charities Local land owners Local residents DEFRA countryside stewardship Landscape managers
• • • • • •
Community & ‘Friends of ’ groups Local land owners Landscape managers
Community & ‘Friends of ’ groups Bioblitz Local schools Local businesses Local land owners Local residents
Sheffield City Council • • • •
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Parks & Countryside Service Weekly task force SWEEP Sheffield Woodland Environment Enhancement Corporate volunteering
Funding. • • • • • • •
Community & ‘Friends of ’ groups Allotment rent Membership fees Entry fees Donations Multi-agency public sector e.g. Groundwork Sponsorships
• •
• • • • • •
Community & ‘Friends of ’ groups Donations Membership fees Environmental charities Sponsorships Forestry commission and Sheffield Wildlife Trust selling by-products
• • • • • •
Community & ‘Friends of ’ groups Donations
Community & ‘Friends of ’ groups Donations Events and Fundraising Memorials Local Schools Local Businesses
Sheffield City Council • • • • • • •
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Traditional local authority funding Section 106 Planning agreements Taxation initiatives Corporate partnerships Ranger school visits LANTRA training course fees
Summary. Site Survey • •
Found issues with topography
Identified Heathland as a key & rare habitat type •
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Discovered issues with access & circulation Understood the social demographic of the area •
Strategy & Action Plan •
• Put forward a series of key aims and proposed actions to address some of the issues that have previously arisen. Along with potential partners to assist in achieving these aims and an approximate timescale. •
Identified potential future partners
Put forward proposals for how these actions might be managed and funded.
Potential Limitations
Audit • •
Audited the quantity, quality and accessibility of green spaces within the study area. Found an imbalance in green space provision and split the study area accordingly. • •
Identified further issues with acccess and legibility. Found a generally poor to fair quality of green spaces.
Brought 4 key themes forward from the survey and audit
• •
It is important to recognise the limitations of this strategy:
Lack of means and time to carry out a more thorough analysis of findings.
• A park asset evaluation for the quality audit would have been beneficial to argue for extra resources and inform strategic investment. • The subjectivity of quality auditing. This could be improved through community questionnaires or similar community engagement techniques. • As the most important users and potential managers of green space, the local communities views are very important but haven’t been gathered within this strategy.
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Any Questions?
References. PDFs Bristol’s Parks and Green Space Strategy. (2008). 1st ed. [ebook] Available at: http:// www.bristol.gov.uk/sites/default/files/documents/leisure_and_culture/parks_and_open_ spaces/Parks%20and%20Green%20Space%20Strategy%20-%20adopted%20Feb%20 2008_0_0_0_0_0_0.pdf [Accessed 1 Dec. 2014]. Green space strategies a good practice guide. (2003). 2nd ed. [ebook] London: Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment. Available at: http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov. uk/20110118095356/http:/www.cabe.org.uk/files/green-space-strategies.pdf [Accessed 8 Dec. 2014]. Monitor of Engagement with the Natural Environment: The national survey on people and the natural environment. (2013). 1st ed. [ebook] Nature England. Available at: http://publications. naturalengland.org.uk/file/6059772310716416 [Accessed 1 Dec. 2014]. National Planning Policy Framework. (2012). 1st ed. [ebook] London: Department for Communities and Local Government. Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/ system/uploads/attachment_data/file/6077/2116950.pdf [Accessed 29 Nov. 2014]. Newcastle’s Green Space Strategy. (2004). 1st ed. [ebook] Available at: http://www.newcastle. gov.uk/wwwfileroot/legacy/ns/strategies/greenspaces/GreenSpaceStrategy.pdf [Accessed 3 Dec. 2014]. Open space strategies Best practice guidance. (2009). 1st ed. [ebook] London: the Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment and the Greater London Authority. Available at: https://www.designcouncil.org.uk/sites/default/files/asset/document/open-space-strategies.pdf [Accessed 2 Dec. 2014]. Rivelin Valley Walk. (2002). 1st ed. [ebook] Rivelin Valley Conservation Group. Available at: http://www.rivelinvalley.org.uk/downloads/rivelin_walk.pdf [Accessed 27 Nov. 2014]. Sheffied’s great outdoors green and openspace strategy 2010-2030. (2003). 1st ed. [ebook] Sheffield: Sheffield city council. Available at: https://www.sheffield.gov.uk/dms/scc/management/ corporate-communications/documents/leisure-culture/parks-gardens/strategy/Green-andOpen-Space-Strategy-2010---2030--pdf--4-05mb-.pdf [Accessed 8 Dec. 2014].
Wildlife Management in England a policy making framework for resolving human-wildlife conflicts. (2010). 1st ed. [ebook] Bristol. Available at: http://archive.defra.gov.uk/wildlife-pets/ wildlife/management/documents/policy-making-framework.pdf [Accessed 7 Dec. 2014].
Websites Digimap.edina.ac.uk, (2003). Digimap Home Page. [online] Available at: http://digimap.edina. ac.uk/digimap/home [Accessed 23 Nov. 2014]. Discover.iucnredlist.org, (2002). Red List. [online] Available at: http://discover.iucnredlist.org/ [Accessed 1 Dec. 2014]. Freshwater Habitats Trust, (2013). River - Freshwater Habitats Trust. [online] Available at: http:// www.freshwaterhabitats.org.uk/habitats/river/ [Accessed 6 Dec. 2014]. Ukso.org, (2013). Map Viewer | UK Soil Observatory | Natural Environment Research Council. [online] Available at: http://www.ukso.org/mapViewer.html [Accessed 27 Nov. 2014]. Nhsn.ncl.ac.uk, (2003). The Natural History Society of Northumbria. [online] Available at: http:// www.nhsn.ncl.ac.uk/ [Accessed 5 Dec. 2014]. Peoples Trust for Endangered Species, (1997). Field (or Short-tailed) vole - Peoples Trust for Endangered Species. [online] Available at: http://ptes.org/get-informed/facts-figures/field-shorttailed-vole/ [Accessed 7 Dec. 2014]. Sheffield Cycle Map - City Centre. (2003). 1st ed. [ebook] Sheffield: Sheffield city counci. Available at: https://www.sheffield.gov.uk/dms/scc/management/corporate-communications/ documents/transport/walking-cycling/cycling/Sheffield-Cycle-Map---City-Centre/Sheffield%20 Cycle%20Map%20-%20City%20Centre.pdf [Accessed 27 Nov. 2014]. Sheffield.gov.uk, (2003). Sheffield City Council - Allotments. [online] Available at: https://www. sheffield.gov.uk/out--about/parks-woodlands--countryside/allotments.html [Accessed 4 Dec. 2014]. Sheffield.gov.uk, (2003). Sheffield City Council - Conservation and the environment. [online] Available at: https://www.sheffield.gov.uk/planning-and-city-development/urban-design-conservation.html [Accessed 1 Dec. 2014].
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
References. Sheffield.gov.uk, (2003). Sheffield City Council - Conservation Areas. [online] Available at: https://www.sheffield.gov.uk/planning-and-city-development/urban-design--conservation/ conservation/conservationareas.html [Accessed 28 Nov. 2014]. Sheffield.gov.uk, (2003). Sheffield City Council - Cycling. [online] Available at: https://www. sheffield.gov.uk/SCC-Home/roads/travel/cycling [Accessed 29 Nov. 2014]. Sheffield.gov.uk, (2003). Sheffield City Council - Ecology Unit. [online] Available at: https://www. sheffield.gov.uk/out--about/parks-woodlands--countryside/ecology-unit.html [Accessed 29 Nov. 2014]. Sheffield.gov.uk, (2003). Sheffield City Council - Leisure. [online] Available at: https://www. sheffield.gov.uk/out--about/leisure.html [Accessed 28 Nov. 2014]. Sheffield.gov.uk, (2003). Sheffield City Council - Maps of Sheffield. [online] Available at: https:// www.sheffield.gov.uk/out--about/maps.html [Accessed 27 Nov. 2014]. Sheffield.gov.uk, (2003). Sheffield City Council - Neighbourhoods: Health and wellbeing profiles. [online] Available at: https://www.sheffield.gov.uk/caresupport/health/health-wellbeing-board/ what-the-board-does/JSNA/health-and-wellbeing-across-sheffield/neighbourhoods-health-andwellbeing-profiles.html [Accessed 24 Nov. 2014].
Sheffield.gov.uk, (2003). Sheffield City Council - Sheffield Ranger Service. [online] Available at: https://www.sheffield.gov.uk/out--about/parks-woodlands--countryside/rangers.html [Accessed 1 Dec. 2014]. Sheffield.gov.uk, (2003). Sheffield City Council - Unitary Development Plan. [online] Available at: https://www.sheffield.gov.uk/planning-and-city-development/planning-documents/udp.html [Accessed 28 Nov. 2014]. Whtrust.org.uk, (2007). Wharncliffe Heathlands Trust. [online] Available at: http://www.whtrust. org.uk/wh-lnr.html [Accessed 5 Dec. 2014].
Online Images NE2 3PN, (2014). View towards Bole Hill Quarry and Padley Chapel, Hope Valley, Derbyshire, about 1912?. [image] Available at: https://www.flickr.com/photos/59662214@N06/9717720692/ [Accessed 9 Dec. 2014]. Sheffield History Forums, (2008). View of Bolehills. [image] Available at: http://www. sheffieldhistory.co.uk/forums/uploads/monthly_07_2008/post-764-1215591799.jpg [Accessed 9 Dec. 2014].
Sheffield.gov.uk, (2003). Sheffield City Council - Parking. [online] Available at: https://www. sheffield.gov.uk/SCC-Home/roads/travel/driving/parking [Accessed 1 Dec. 2014].
Sheffield History Forums, (2010). Rivelin Valley Historic Photo. [image] Available at: http:// www.sheffieldhistory.co.uk/forums/uploads/monthly_06_2010/post-5770-093062600%20 1276460051.jpg [Accessed 9 Dec. 2014].
Sheffield.gov.uk, (2003). Sheffield City Council - Park’s volunteering and Friends Groups. [online] Available at: https://www.sheffield.gov.uk/out--about/parks-woodlands--countryside/ gettinginvolved.html [Accessed 3 Dec. 2014].
Sheffield Time Walk, (2013). Glen Bridge Rivelin Valley. [image] Available at: https:// sheffieldtimewalk.files.wordpress.com/2013/02/glen-bridge-rivelin-2.jpg [Accessed 9 Dec. 2014].
Sheffield.gov.uk, (2003). Sheffield City Council - Sheffield’s Great Outdoors. [online] Available at: https://www.sheffield.gov.uk/out--about/parks-woodlands--countryside/green-and-openspace-strategy.html [Accessed 28 Nov. 2014]. Sheffield.gov.uk, (2003). Sheffield City Council - Sheffield Local Plan proposals map. [online] Available at: https://www.sheffield.gov.uk/planning-and-city-development/planning-documents/ local-plan/proposals-map.html [Accessed 27 Nov. 2014].
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Appendices.
Geology. Legend
Overview •
Predominantly a mix of Pennine Lower Coal Measures and Crawshaw Sandstone.
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
List of Local Community Groups. Local Groups • • • • • • • • • • • •
Action for Stannington Friends of Blake Street Nature Park Friends of the Bole Hills Friends of Lydgate Green Friends of Walkley Cemetery Friends of Philadelphia Gardens Rivelin Valley Conservation Group Sheffield Landscape Trust Rivelin Valley Conservation Group (RVCG) The Sheffield Dirt Society Friends of Allotment Groups Sheffield Allotment and Leisure Gardeners Federation
Environmental Partners of Sheffield Council • ALERC • Natural England • Forestry Commission • Environment Agency • Peak District National Park Authority • National Trust • RSPB • Moors for the Future • Sheffield Wildlife Trust • University of Sheffield • Biodiversity and Macroecology Group
• • • • • • • • •
Sheffield Hallam University Peak National Park Ecology Service Sorby Natural History Society Sheffield Area Geology Trust (For all enquiries about Geological Records and Sheffield RIGS (Regionally Important Geological and Geomorphological Sites) Museums Sheffield Rotherham Biological Records Centre Derbyshire Biological Records Centre Barnsley Biological Records Centre
Other Potential Partnerships • • • • • • • • •
River Stewardship Company Groundwork Prince’s Trust Grow Sheffield Activity Sheffield Play England Loxley Valley Protection Society Rivelin Valley Conservation Group Local schools and businesses
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Full SWOT Analysis. SWOT ANALYSIS STRENGTHS
WEAKNESSES
Strong presence of local history and pride. Integrated management of Rivelin Valley. A plentiful provision of allotments. Strong ecological and access links to the Peak District. A wide variety of green space types and scales. The range of habitats including heathlands. Extensive views. A strong presence and variety of Community Groups managing the green spaces around the whole study site. A variety of sports facilities, clubs and societies. A wide range of users.
An imbalance of greenspace provision between the two halves of the site. Life expectancy lower and childhood obesity higher in the right half of the study area. No evident greenspace network on right side. Fragmented Public Rights of Way network. Poor signage for some green spaces and lack of information. Steep topography makes access difficult. Few car parking facilities. Long waiting lists for allotments sites.
OPPORTUNITIES
THREATS
Address imbalance of provision. Improve/expand upon community involvement. Wealthier neighbourhoods may be more inclined to contribute towards green space management. Better management and expansion upon rare heathland habitats. Some areas host species marked for conservation in HAP’s and LBAP’s. Improve/expand upon urban growing. Environmental educational and partnership opportunities with schools. Improve quality of pedestrian and cycling routes. Increase/expand health related activities. Better working relationships between Community Groups and also with the local Council. Some scope for event hosting.
Fragmented space ownerships and management could enforce barriers. Lack of funding resources and budget cuts. Lack of a skilled workforce for every green space. Conflicting user/group interests/agendas when managing a space. Willingness of community to engage. Security and vandalism worries. Allotments and green spaces within valley are prone to flooding due to topography. Paths in winter are more perilous due to rain.
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Quality Audit Sheet.
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Full Quality Audit Information.
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Full Quality Audit Information.
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Full Quality Audit Information.
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Full Quality Audit Information.
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY
Full Quality Audit Information.
INTRODUCTION | SURVEY & ANALYSIS | AUDIT | VISION | STRATEGY | ACTION PLAN | SUMMARY