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