Sport England has published new planning guidance, which aims to make it simpler and easier for local authorities and planning bodies to develop community sports facilities.

Produced in partnership with David Lock Associates (DLA), the Planning for Sport Guidance focuses on 12 principles, which seek to help those looking to create sports infrastructure navigate the planning system.

“Our new guidance has been designed to help the planning system take an increasingly proactive role in providing such opportunities and creating ‘active environments’ so more people can reap the benefits of improved physical and mental wellbeing,” said Charles Johnston, Sport England's director of property.

“If you work in or are looking to engage with the planning system I encourage you to take a look at the guidance and help the planning system embrace the 12 planning-for-sport principles it presents.”

The Planning for Sport Guidance will now replace Sport England's four existing planning for sport guides; Planning Aims and Objectives Guide, Forward Planning Guide, Development Management Guide and Supporting Advice Guide.

To download and read the full guidance, click here (downloads as a PDF document).