The Park Development Framework is a culmination of three years work.
The summary below is a brief overview of the work undertaken during that period.
Pre scenario research
The purpose of this stage was to ensure the process was planned against available information. The majority of the research was completed in the first half of 2007. Baseline information for the Park is still being collated and will continue as part of the monitoring and review process.
Four key documents were produced from this stage of the work:
- Baseline Report
- Engagement Strategy
- Statement of Community Involvement
- Sustainability Appraisal Scoping Report
Exploring alternative scenarios
During this stage of the process we explored a range of possible development and management options with stakeholders. This was to identify and evaluate the range of benefits and potential implications that could arise from implementation. This was done by developing four scenarios:
- Biodiversity
- Sport and physical activity
- Environmental infrastructure; and
- Social and community infrastructure.
Each scenario comprised of a series of propositions for the future development and management of the Park, and outlined key polices required to deliver them. The scenario development process was undertaken over the summer of 2007. Four key documents where produced from this stage of the work:
- Schematic Scenario Report
- Scenario Report
- Scenario Summary Report
- Interim Sustainability Report
Preparing Preferred Development Option
During this stage of the process we drew together a range of opportunities and issues identified at the scenario development stage. We explored possibilities for the future; working iteratively towards a preferred combination of scenarios, in order to maximise synergies and minimise conflicts between them.
A thematic and topic based approach was adopted. It included five overarching themes and was based on the original four scenarios (with the inclusion of a theme relating to the Park as a visitor destination). These themes were then developed to become the six aims of the Framework.
Within each of the themes a number of topic areas were identified that represent distinct types of offer and activity. These topic areas were then developed to become the 22 objectives of the Framework.
Partner and Stakeholder Engagement
Effective engagement of partners and stakeholders, including other major landowners in the Park, has been central to the preparation of the Framework.
Workshops have been held throughout the process, providing us with invaluable assistance to scope initial ideas . Topics identified what the Park could deliver, as well as helped refine our aims, objectives and proposals.
In all, over 100 individuals (representing partner and stakeholder organisations) took part in workshop sessions to help us prepare the Framework.