Share your views on public open spaces

Building on the council’s 2020 Open Spaces Strategy, work is being undertaken to carry out quantity, quality and accessibility audits of open space sites across the district to establish a revised baseline and propose minimum standards for open spaces across the district.  

Work is also being carried out to understand current open space provision, barriers to access and threats to open space, as well as reviewing opportunities for the long-term stewardship of open spaces. The review will provide robust evidence to support the council’s new local plan to 2041 and will support the council in securing funding through the planning system for open spaces. 

The Harborough District spans 238 square miles across south and east Leicestershire and features open spaces of varying size and type. Together, these open spaces form a valuable network of green space providing recreation and essential habitat for wildlife. 

Cllr Simon Galton, Cabinet Lead for Planning, said: “The council recognises the vital contribution that open space provides for biodiversity, recreation, play and health and wellbeing. After this thorough review the Open Spaces Strategy for the Harborough District will provide a robust evidence base for the use and demand of open space. The revised strategy will allow the council to prioritise the development of, and investment into, open space against updated quality, quantity and accessibility standards.   

“We’d like to hear the views on public open spaces from the public to ensure that we provide high quality and accessible spaces that meet the needs of residents in the future.”  

Public drop-in sessions where you can find out more and give your views in person will take place across the district. Information will be shared via the consultation web page, social media and other channels once confirmed. Parish councils, neighbourhood forums and other key stakeholders will also be consulted.   

Residents can have their say by completing an online questionnaire which can be found at: www.harborough.gov.uk/consultation/info/161

The consultation will run from 3 June 2025 (8am) until 15 July 2025 (1pm).