Leisure / sport
Sustainable development is ultimately about securing quality of life now and for the future. Local authorities play a key role in delivering opportunities for leisure, sport, recreation and culture which should be readily available to all. In all these activities there is potential for both passive and active roles. For some what may be critical is the quiet enjoyment of locally accessible greenspace; for others it may be being able to take part in much more energetic activities such as mountain biking; for yet others it may be taking part in, or watching, a festival or major event.
Why these activities are relevant to sustainable development is that the way in which they are provided and undertaken can contribute in terms of economic, health, social and environmental benefits. They:
- Generate and sustain jobs and economic activity both directly and through the multiplier effect;
- Contribute to physical and mental health, and encourage healthy lifestyle choices;
- Encourage participation and strengthen communities of interest; and
- Value environmental resources, on which they depend, and should aim to be conducted in ways which reduce resource use and secure environmental enhancement and protection.
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| Paths to Improvement include: | Policy | Being Implemented | Outcomes |
| Are places for formal and informal enjoyment and recreation provided, including investing in local parks and open spaces, and safeguarding and enhancing a network of greenspaces and other public places? | |||
| Is there a strategy for the management and maintenance of school grounds, parks and open spaces, meeting the needs of users while having regard for reducing use of energy and chemicals, and safeguarding and enhancing biodiversity? | |||
| Is a network of paths being developed and enhanced for walking and cycling, for recreation and journeys to schools, shops and work? | |||
| Are facilities provided and participation encouraged in sport and active leisure pursuits for both adults and children? | |||
| Are a range of leisure and recreation facilities provided, used and valued, which are accessible to all by public transport, compatible with their neighbourhoods, and meet the needs, aspirations and lifestyles of all sections of the community including toddlers, young people and the elderly? | |||
| Is it ensured that tourism, sports facilities, visitor management, and major events and festivals contribute to the local economy, and do so in ways which respect local communities and protect, enhance and aid valuing the local and global environment? (i.e. a strategy for Sustainable Event Management) | |||
| Is support provided for the protection, restoration, enhancement and interpretation of natural and cultural heritage, and promotion of the arts and crafts? | |||
| Is support provided for volunteering opportunities and community involvement, including in managing and shaping the future of the local area? | |||
| See also accessibility and location of major development (under land use planning) | |||
| See also estate management (under resource management) |