7.41 The UK Government is committed to protecting biodiversity, recognising that it is as much about the quality of our lives, economic development and local distinctiveness, as it is nature conservation. A number of National Planning Policy Guidelines (NPPGs) make reference to greenspace. NPPG 11: Sport, Physical Recreation and Open Space, is particularly concerned to ensure that development plans safeguard and enhance open spaces and the resources required for sport and recreation, based on the principle of sustainability. NPPG 14: Natural Heritage, aims to ensure that the natural heritage, the plants, animals, landform and geology and the relationships between them, is conserved and enhanced for the benefit of present and future generations. It emphasises the inter-relationship between environmental, economic and social issues and the role new development can play in securing environmental improvements. Particular areas of greenspace form part of Glasgow’s cultural heritage and merit protection on that basis, in accordance with NPPG 18: Planning and the Historic Environment . The Joint Structure Plan provides the strategic context for sustaining and enhancing the natural environment, promoting the concept of a Green Network extending from the heart of Glasgow and including policies aimed at protecting the Green Belt and other environmental resources.

7.42 The City Council’s Landscape Strategy, the Parks and Open Spaces Strategy, and the Local Biodiversity Action Plan (LBAP) are also relevant. The latter identifies the range of habitats and species that can be found in the City and which are declining nationally. Most of these can be found within the City’s Greenspace network, particularly along river valleys and the urban edge (Figure 7.4).

Figure 7.4: Glasgow's Greenspace Network