Play England’s Evidence Submission to the Planning and Infrastructure Bill Committee
Play England has submitted compelling evidence to the Planning and Infrastructure Bill committee, urging the inclusion of a statutory Play Sufficiency duty to ensure every child in England has access to safe, inclusive, and high-quality play opportunities.
Our evidence submission reinforces the urgent need for local authorities to assess and secure sufficient play opportunities for all children. You can read our full submission here.
Why a Play Sufficiency Duty Matters
Children's opportunities for play have significantly declined over recent decades, impacting their physical and mental wellbeing. Unlike Wales and Scotland, which have enacted Play Sufficiency legislation, England lacks a statutory framework to protect, enhance and secure play opportunities. The last national play strategy in England was developed in 2008, leaving a policy vacuum that needs urgent attention.
Proposed Amendment to the Planning and Infrastructure Bill
Play England proposes a new clause in the Planning and Infrastructure Bill 2025 to introduce a Play Sufficiency duty for local planning authorities. This duty would require authorities to:
Regularly assess and publish reports on the sufficiency of play opportunities.
Integrate findings into local plans and infrastructure strategies.
Protect existing play spaces and require new developments to include quality play areas.
Consult with children, families, and communities on play provision.
The amendment aims to embed play into planning decisions, ensuring that children's needs are considered alongside housing, transport, and utilities.
Aligning with International and National Commitments
The proposed duty aligns with Article 31 of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, which guarantees every child's right to play. It also supports the government's commitment to raise the healthiest generation of children, as outlined in the Child Health Action Plan.
Learning from Devolved Nations
Wales and Scotland have successfully implemented Play Sufficiency duties, providing valuable models for England. In Wales, local authorities are required to assess and improve play opportunities, leading to a structured and effective approach. Scotland's legislation integrates play considerations into local development plans, enhancing the design of child-friendly neighbourhoods.
Growing Momentum for Change
We are not alone in this mission. The call for stronger play policies is gaining traction:
Cross-sector support: Organisations spanning health, education, and urban planning recognise the critical need for action.
Political engagement: Ministers and MP’s recognition of play sufficiency is a key step towards legislative change.
Public demand: Parents, educators, and communities are increasingly vocal about the need for more and better play opportunities.
Play England: Leading the Way
Play England is at the heart of this movement, working alongside Government, policymakers, local authorities, and communities to turn advocacy into action. We are calling on all stakeholders to back our call for Play Sufficiency legislation and a new National Play Strategy to make England a play-friendly country.
A Call to Action
Our submission is a timely reminder that play is not a luxury but a necessity for children's development and wellbeing. By adopting the proposed amendment, the Government can ensure that play is recognised as critical infrastructure, safeguarding children's right to play for generations to come.
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