The extensive demand for KKP's services in this area has led to further expansion of the Company's open spaces team to ensure that it continues to deliver the quality work via which its high reputation has developed.

The team, led by PPG17 Team Manager Claire Fallon, now comprises six consultants and four field researchers plus support from dedicated administration staff and its GIS data analysis and mapping unit. This is one of the largest dedicated teams working in this discipline in the UK.

In recent weeks, three local authorities have chosen Knight, Kavanagh & Page (KKP), now recognised to be one of the UK's leading specialists in the PPG17 field, to deliver a range of open space, sport and recreational facilities audits and assessments.

Weymouth & Portland Borough Council (WPBC) has commissioned a study covering improvement, investment and protection of sports facilities and recreational open space in the Borough.  The internationally significant sailing and watersports provision in the area will also be a key focus as Weymouth will host sailing events for the London 2012 Olympic Games.

KKP will also be managing an assessment for Malvern Hills District Council (MHDC) using the five-step approach outlined in PPG17 guidance; from identifying local needs to documenting recommendations.

This will involve extensive consultation with parish councils as major providers of open space in the area and examine provision for both indoor and outdoor sports facilities.  KKP will develop a settlement hierarchy of facilities and provide MHDC with supplementary planning guidance to help secure contributions through the planning process.

It was also very pleased to be appointed to undertake a physical survey, assessment and full analysis of data relating to all publicly accessible open space provision in the Borough of Doncaster. 

Doncaster MBC has an excellent reputation in green spaces; it was one of the first local authorities to undertake a green space assessment and is cited as an example of best practice by the Urban Green Spaces Task Force.

All three authorities are new to KKP's extensive PPG17 portfolio - a further testament to its growing reputation for top quality services in this specialist field. In the last year alone, it has audited more than 3,000 open spaces sites in a variety of urban and rural environments.

KKP's philosophy centres on meeting community need and providing clear direction for future development.  Its strategic expertise and understanding places KKP at the forefront of open spaces, outdoor recreation, play and playing pitch strategy work nationally.