KET11 Local Green Spaces

Policy Intent

The green infrastructure network will include some land that may qualify as a Local Green Space. These spaces are particularly special and cherished by the local community for a combination of their public access, tranquillity and recreational value. They would be especially missed if they were to be lost to development. 

The policy idea is to designate Local Green Spaces in the area, but for each space we will need to describe why it is special. Once designated these sites are afforded a high level of protection from development. New development will not be permitted on land designated as Local Green Space except in very special circumstances or where it is ancillary to the use of the land for public recreational purposes.

The test for each location is found in §107 NPPF as follows:

The Local Green Space designation should only be used where the green space is:

1. in reasonably close proximity to the community it serves;
2. demonstrably special to a local community and holds a particular local significance, for example because of its beauty, historic significance, recreational value (including as a playing field), tranquillity or richness of its wildlife; and
3. local in character and is not an extensive tract of land.

A long list of potential candidate sites suggested by the community, Advisory Panel and the Council are:

1. Mill Road Park and the ballpark/skate park beyond in Carey Street
2. Small green space in Mill Road leading to Tudor Court
3. Small green patch junction of Montagu & Victoria Street
4. William Street Community Garden
5. Kettering Pleasure Park
6. Reed Close (bottom of Britannia Road) new pocket park with play equipment (W3W: Adjust.Verse.Sounds) 
7. Corner of Rockingham Road and Northfield Avenue – pocket park
8. Grafton Street Park
9. Union Street –Union Street Copse
10. Northfield Avenue (W3W awards.curl.shells)
11. Meadow Road Park
12. Manor House Gardens
13. Park to the rear of Corn Market Hall
14. Corner Stamford Road/Catesby Street

Landowners of these locations are being contacted as part of informal engagement. We would like to know why these spaces are important to you.