Tameside MBC has commissioned Knight Kavanagh & Page to conduct a PPG17 study encompassing open spaces, playing pitches and indoor sports facilities.

The study will involve a comprehensive needs assessment and the development of standards to identify deficiencies and surpluses against these standards.

KKP will apply a variety of techniques including face-to-face consultation, postal questionnaires and street interviews to collect robust, accurate evidence. This will be supported by analysis of nationally available tools and resources (such as Sport England's Active Places Power and Facilities Improvement Service guidance) and the Company's own, highly regarded, GIS mapping services.

This is a particularly significant piece of work for the KKP's open space team. Lead Consultant Claire Fallon said,

"My first assignment at KKP was working on Tameside's playing pitch strategy. We are looking forward to delivering this update as it will be great to see recommended improvements realised and will also give the Council the opportunity to benefit from our own advancements and improved processes."

"Over the last 12 months we have conducted PPG17 studies all across the country from West Dunbartonshire and the Lake District in the North to Croydon in the South and Torfaen in Wales; it will be a nice change to work on our home turf!"

KKP has a strong working relationship with the Council and Tameside Sports Trust, having worked on a number of assignments with both. One example being the robust business plan we worked on with the Trust to assist it to secure a 3-year grant agreement with the Council. This has led to a major facility improvement programme; £8 million has been invested at three sites across the Borough.

This combination of contacts and in-depth local knowledge will enhance KKP's capacity to make practical yet challenging recommendations for future plans.

Find out more about KKP's services and expertise in open space studies