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Merton Open Space Strategy (MOSS)

The aims of the Merton Open Space Strategy (MOSS) are to:

• present our vision for the future of the open space network, and
• outline our action plans to achieve this vision by 2010.

Merton Open Space Strategy documents

What is open space?

For the purposes of this strategy, we define open space as:

“All land and water in Merton both publicly or privately owned, mostly in an undeveloped state, that offer public enjoyment through physical or visual access”.

The strategy deals then with the following types of open space:

• parks
• sports pitches
• commons
• allotments
• cemeteries and church yards
• school playing fields
• waterways and streams

It does not consider:

• private gardens
• grass verges along roads and footpaths
• hard landscaped areas (such as public squares and streetscapes)

Vision

The open space vision for Merton is:

A safe, clean and green Merton open space network that is sustainable and...

• provides a range of open spaces and recreational experiences
• enhances people's quality of life through contributing to attractive and healthy living
• represents Merton's natural and cultural heritage features and landscapes
• offers opportunities to learn about the natural environment
• protects and enhances natural conservation areas
• provides a diversity of accessible natural areas
• protects valued elements of Merton's unique identity
• maximises public access

Action plans

To address the open space issues that have been identified the council have developed a number of action plans. These set out key projects that the council would like to carry out in partnership with the local community and other partners (subject to securing funding). There are action plans for:

• monitoring progress;
• securing funding for future improvements;
• parks improvements;
• other improvements;
• planning, research and development;
• marketing and partnerships

The action plans are set out in detail in the Merton Open Space Strategy documents

See also

• Allotments
• Cemeteries and crematoria
• Nature reserves
• Parks and recreation grounds
• Planning
• Play areas
• Sport pitch hire
• Trees in public areas
• Verge maintenance and grass cutting

Contact us

Copies of the MOSS can be purchased on request from the Spatial Policy team on 020 8545 3041

More information is available from Leisure Facilities