Written question asked by Earl Russell (Liberal Democrat) on Monday, 4 September 2023, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Monday, 18 September 2023. It was answered by Baroness Scott of Bybrook (Conservative) on Monday, 18 September 2023 on behalf of the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities.

Parks and Playgrounds

Question: To ask His Majesty's Government what plans they have to make longer-term and consistent funding available to local authorities for park and playground provision, particularly smaller play spaces in more deprived areas.

Answer: The final Local Government Finance Settlement for 2023/24 makes available up to £59.7 billion for local government in England, an increase in Core Spending Power of up to £5.1 billion or 9.4% in cash terms on 2022/23. This boost in funding demonstrates how Government stands behind councils up and down the country. The majority of the funding is un-ringfenced in recognition of local authorities being best placed to understand local priorities. On top of this, the £9 million UK-wide Levelling Up Parks Fund has provided specific funding to deliver improved green spaces in communities with the lowest access and a further £30 million will be provided to overhaul 30 local parks in England with a focus on improving facilities for young families.

Secondary information