Play_Park_Strategy_2021-2030

Government policy and strategy highlights the importance of the provision of appropriate open space and play areas for the adequate development, health and wellbeing of children and young people, regardless of their physical or mental abilities; The Fermanagh and Omagh district is the largest geographically of all 11 council districts in Northern Ireland, covering 3,000km². It also has the smallest population (116,289 in 2017), with over 66% of the population living outside the two main population centres (Enniskillen and Omagh); Childhood obesity within the district is high, with 6% of Primary 1 age children classed as obese, rising to 8% of children in Year 8; Over four out of every five households have access to a car or a van. This is in excess of the Northern Ireland average; The population within the district is ageing and a decrease in the number of children is projected; Under PPS8 for new residential developments of 100 units or more, or for development sites of 5 hectares or more, an equipped children’s play area will be required as an integral part of the development; The National Playing Fields Association (NPFA) recommended minimum standard of 2.4 hectares of “outdoor playing space‟ per 1000 population (commonly referred to as the “6-acre standard‟), Annex B of PPS8 shall be used as guidance; and Play spaces have the potential to increase the opportunity for children and young people to connect with and be part of the community, especially where play facilities are provided in areas which are open and accessible to everyone. 23 Strategic and Policy Context Play and recreation are essential to children’s health and wellbeing; Key issues The key issues identified in the independent report are: