Open space refers to publicly accessible spaces that can be used for recreation which includes parks, sports grounds, linear open spaces, wetland areas and civic plazas. The Open Space Strategy and Open Space Guidelines documents showcase the development and management of open space in Playford.

Open space provides places for our community members to socialise, be active and connect to nature, while contributing to a range of personal benefits including:

• Improving mental health
• Encouraging physical activity
• Fostering social connections
• Helping cool urban environments
• Supporting habitats and biodiversity

The Open Space Guidelines detail how these areas are developed and managed and addresses elements such as:

• Facilities
• Playspace design
• Signage
• Dog park and skate park design
• Shade
• Water play and nature play
• Accessibility
• Environmental considerations
• Art and culture
• Maintenance considerations
• Criteria for identifying surplus land for disposal
• Criteria for acquiring open space.

The Open Space Strategy document is a blueprint for how open spaces can be improved which helps guide our investment decisions; it identifies unfunded initiatives to improve open space across the City of Playford. Funding for these initiatives is allocated in our Annual Business Plan.

The directions and initiatives in the strategy reflect the following principles:

• A good provision of open space to meet community needs
• Diverse and quality open spaces
• Accessible recreation and sport opportunities
• Quality open-space destinations at key locations
• Sustainable open spaces
• Open spaces that are safe, activated and create a sense of place.