HC Deb 18 November 2003 vol 413 cc807-8W
Dr. Kumar

To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what action his Department is taking to encourage local authorities to protect and develop parks and green spaces, with particular reference to(a) Sunderland and (b) Redcar and Cleveland. [139423]

Keith Hill

Sunderland and Redcar and Cleveland will benefit from our support for local authorities to protect and develop parks and green spaces, which are essential to sustainable communities.

The Office of the Deputy Prime Minister expects local authorities to undertake a robust assessment of needs and opportunities and develop a strategic approach to protect and provide their parks and green spaces.

The Office of the Deputy Prime Minister supports authorities with free advice, delivered through Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment (CABE) Space, to develop a strategic approach to parks and green spaces where they do not already have one.

We will continue to develop and promote better practice in civic spaces.