Mary Ann O'Brien (Independent)

I wish to raise an issue which on the surface will not seem that urgent to Members. However, the country is facing an obesity epidemic and all Members are fully aware of the poor planning regulations that have blighted the country in recent years. When the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government is next available to come into this House, I seek a discussion with him and assurances from him that parks, green spaces and playing fields will not be sold for development but will be protected and maintained for all present and future generations to use and enjoy. Safe, accessible and welcoming parks, green spaces and playing fields are essential for local communities and must be safeguarded against sale for development. Furthermore, it is vital to avoid a decline in their quality and maintenance, which in turn would lead to a decline in use.

In recent years, councillors in the United Kingdom facing funding cuts have chosen to cease maintenance of playing fields or have sold them off entirely for redevelopment. As a result, in March 2011 the Protection of Bowling Greens (Development Control) Bill was introduced in the House of Commons by Labour Party MP, John Woodcock. The Bill seeks to halt the growing number of bowling greens being disposed of, thereby depriving communities of much-needed green space for physical activity. At a time of growing child obesity and the increased stress that comes with unemployment and falling disposable incomes, it makes economic sense to ensure parks, green spaces and playing fields are protected and maintained for the maintenance of a decent life for citizens.