Agenda item

8.1

The Executive Director, Place submitted a report seeking Cabinet approval for the Council to adopt the Inclusive Play Policy for parks and green spaces.

8.2

RESOLVED: That Cabinet:-

(a)

approves the adoption of the Inclusive Play Policy for parks and green spaces to provide a framework for future decision making about maintaining existing and creating new play opportunities; and

(b)

notes that the Cabinet Member for Culture, Sport and Leisure will agree the further development of the Policy, procedures and other terms referred to within this report, including the establishment of a City steering group by January 2014, in accordance with the functions reserved to her in the Leader’s Scheme of delegation.

8.3

Reasons for Decision

8.3.1

The implementation of an Inclusive Play Policy will be continuing and advancing our approach to more fully engage and consult with users, communities and stakeholders to develop play opportunities that are inclusive regardless of a child’s age, background or ability.

8.3.2

The Policy will inform and guide future decision making regarding the provision of inclusive play opportunities in publicly accessible parks and green spaces. It will also provide a model of best practice to assist and guide other public space play providers.

8.4

Alternatives Considered and Rejected

8.4.1

To date, the Parks and Countryside Service had followed best practice and guidance in making playgrounds more accessible and inclusive wherever resources had permitted. The development of an agreed Inclusive Play Policy and framework will provide an even more coordinated approach to this work through a new City Steering Group. It will encourage more opportunities for inclusive play opportunities to be fully considered in the design and future provision of Sheffield’s parks and green spaces. The assessment of sites will also put us in a position where we can consider options and recommend parks and green spaces where any potential funding or adaptations can best provide for more inclusive play opportunities. The more coordinated and collaborative approach to Inclusive Play is considered to be the best option overall.

8.5

Any Interest Declared or Dispensation Granted

None

8.6

Reason for Exemption if Public/Press Excluded During Consideration

None

8.7

Respective Director Responsible for Implementation

Simon Green, Executive Director, Place

8.8

Relevant Scrutiny and Policy Development Committee If Decision Called In

Economic and Environmental Wellbeing

8.1

The Executive Director, Place submitted a report seeking Cabinet approval for the Council to adopt the Inclusive Play Policy for parks and green spaces.

8.2

RESOLVED: That Cabinet:-

(a)

approves the adoption of the Inclusive Play Policy for parks and green spaces to provide a framework for future decision making about maintaining existing and creating new play opportunities; and

(b)

notes that the Cabinet Member for Culture, Sport and Leisure will agree the further development of the Policy, procedures and other terms referred to within this report, including the establishment of a City steering group by January 2014, in accordance with the functions reserved to her in the Leader’s Scheme of delegation.

8.3

Reasons for Decision

8.3.1

The implementation of an Inclusive Play Policy will be continuing and advancing our approach to more fully engage and consult with users, communities and stakeholders to develop play opportunities that are inclusive regardless of a child’s age, background or ability.

8.3.2

The Policy will inform and guide future decision making regarding the provision of inclusive play opportunities in publicly accessible parks and green spaces. It will also provide a model of best practice to assist and guide other public space play providers.

8.4

Alternatives Considered and Rejected

8.4.1

To date, the Parks and Countryside Service had followed best practice and guidance in making playgrounds more accessible and inclusive wherever resources had permitted. The development of an agreed Inclusive Play Policy and framework will provide an even more coordinated approach to this work through a new City Steering Group. It will encourage more opportunities for inclusive play opportunities to be fully considered in the design and future provision of Sheffield’s parks and green spaces. The assessment of sites will also put us in a position where we can consider options and recommend parks and green spaces where any potential funding or adaptations can best provide for more inclusive play opportunities. The more coordinated and collaborative approach to Inclusive Play is considered to be the best option overall.

8.5

Any Interest Declared or Dispensation Granted

None

8.6

Reason for Exemption if Public/Press Excluded During Consideration

None

8.7

Respective Director Responsible for Implementation

Simon Green, Executive Director, Place

8.8

Relevant Scrutiny and Policy Development Committee If Decision Called In

Economic and Environmental Wellbeing