Policy 2.18 Green Infrastructure

2.86 In a dense conurbation like London, the network of green and open spaces has to be increasingly multi-functional. The term green infrastructure refers to the network of all green and open spaces together with the Blue Ribbon Network (see policies 7.24, 7.25, 7.26, 7.27, 7.28, 7.29 and 7.30) that provides multiple benefits to Londoners (see Glossary). It functions best when designed and managed as an interdependent ‘green grid’ where the network should be actively managed and promoted to support the myriad functions it performs^[1]. All development takes place within a wider environment and green infrastructure should be seen as an integral element and not as an ‘add-on’. Its value is evident across all of London and at all scales and the Mayor wishes to see the network maintained and enhanced and gaps between parts of the network closed.

2.87 The East London Green Grid set the sub regional framework^[2] for the enhancement of and integration of green infrastructure. The All London Green Grid SPG and the supporting area frameworks have extended this approach to green infrastructure across London and taken together with policies 7.14 to 7.15 this approach is consistent with the NPPF requirement (para 109) to recognise the wider benefits of ecosystems services. It also complements the Green Arc Initiative that aims to improve access to, and the quality of, the countryside around London. The Mayor, working with the boroughs, the London Parks and Green Spaces Forum, The Royal Parks and other key stakeholders (including, where appropriate, those outside London), will support the extension of this approach across London. An example of this cross boundary working will be the Greater Thames Marshes, a Nature Improvement Area.

2.88 Green infrastructure is an overarching term for a number of discrete elements (parks, street trees, green roofs etc.) that go to make up a functional network of green spaces and green features. These are important in their own right but, by considering their design and management together they can deliver benefits that are greater than the sum of their parts. These benefits include, but are not limited to:

• making a positive contribution to climate change by adapting to and mitigating its impact (see Policies 5.9, 5.10 and 5.11, 7.16, 7.17, 7.18 and 7.21)
• improving water quality, flood mitigation and reduced flood risk through sustainable urban drainage systems (see Policies 5.12, 5.13 and 7.21)
• promoting walking and cycling (see Policies 6.9 and 6.10)
• creating a sense of place and opportunities for greater appreciation of the landscape and cultural heritage (see Policies 7.4, 7.5, 7.8 and 7.20)
• as a place for local food production, in line with the Mayor’s Capital Growth strategy (see Policies 7.16, 7.17, 7.18 and 7.22)
• as a place for outdoor education and children’s play (see Policies 3.6, 7.16, 7.17 and 7.18).
• protection and enhancement of biodiversity, including mitigation of new development (see Policy 7.19)
• increasing recreational opportunities, access to and enjoyment of open space and the Blue Ribbon Network to promote healthy living (see Policies 7.16, 7.17, 7.18, 7.24, 7.25, 7.26, 7.27 7.28, 7.29 and 7.30)

2.89 Green Infrastructure strategies are a key element in promoting and enhancing and ensuring effective design and management of London’s network of open spaces. These need to be kept under review by Boroughs and action plans produced to ensure that the strategies are implemented. These action plans should be used proactively in developing LDD policy, masterplanning and identifying opportunities provided by development applications (Policy 7.18). The Mayor has published best practice guidance on the preparation of open space strategies jointly with CABE Space^[3]and this guidance will be reviewed to address the wider issues of developing green infrastructure strategies.

Map 2.8 London’s strategic open space network

^[1] see Natural England’s ‘Accessible Natural Greenspace Standards’ (ANGST)

^[2] Mayor Of London. East London Green Grid Framework. London Plan Supplementary Planning Guidance. GLA, 2008

^[3] Mayor of London/CABE Space. 2009 op cit