5.1 Open spaces
The extent and variety of
greens and open spaces makes a vital contribution to the life
and character of the villages.
In Tockington, The Green
forms the focal point of village life and a green foil to
the predominantly local stone buildings and surrounding walls.
The largely uninterrupted open space, punctuated by a couple
of shapely trees, makes an attractive traditional setting
for village events. The green space at Manor Park is a model
of simple communal open space with its mainly native trees
and a surrounding of newer housing.
In Old Down there is much
valued green space at The Crescent while the old orchards
and paddocks within the hamlet lend a distinctive charm to
the surroundings. The pine trees at the top of Old Down Hill
are a notable feature.
In Olveston the pond with its ducks alongside Catherine Hill
is fed by local springs and bordered by profuse vegetation
making a special feature. The open land at Olveston Common
forms a setting for houses on the edge of the village. However,
Olveston's most distinctive feature is the lack of open space
in the centre of the village. Its village green was lost as
a result of land enclosure in 1844. The high stone walls,
even around the churchyard, give Olveston a unique character.
There are a number of dispersed
public and private recreational facilities in the Parish.
In some cases there is associated car parking as the facilities
serve the whole area. Although some of the facilities depend
on the Parish Council, voluntary enthusiasm helps to ensure
the future of others.
At Tockington facilities
include the children's playground and tennis courts adjacent
to the Parish Hall, and playing fields at Tockington Manor
School set alongside attractive grounds and overlooked by
the fine Manor.
At Old Down is the Queen
Alexandra Memorial Pavilion and social club with associated
football and cricket pitches, bowls club and scout hut and
children's playground, each serving the whole Parish and beyond.
In Olveston there are children's play facilities in open space
near Russet Close and allotments in Elberton Road that are
an asset for the whole area.
Care is needed in the planning
and maintenance of open spaces and recreation land if the
rural character of the villages is to be retained.
5.1.1 Retain rural character of open spaces
and recreational land
Safeguard:
• natural features, including ponds and watercourses
• existing trees. Trees need special consideration as
they are
a vital component of the village scene but have a finite life
• existing recreation areas and share facilities where
possible
• grass verges within the villages
Use:
• simple areas of grass and keep existing areas natural
• materials in keeping with their surroundings
• native trees and shrubs16
Design:
• for ease of future maintenance. Manage open spaces
in sympathy with rural character
• to minimise intrusive structures, such as signs, kerbs,
advertising and lighting. Locate dog bins and litter bins
discreetly
• for the long term. Encourage the development of a
Master Plan for tree planting
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