- Is not equitable and accessible for all – indirect discrimination under Equality Act (2010)
Currently, Hough End Fields is an open greenspace, free of charge for everyone to use. Many people go there to play sports casually, without the need for paying or booking or specialised equipment or clothing. However, a fenced off, paid for sports development would discriminate against those who do not have the means to access this. Furthermore, the current open space is accessible to all. Fencing off areas of open space on public land would indirectly discriminate (Equality Act 2010) against people who are no longer able to walk freely across, such as pregnant women, as well as people with disabilities and mental health problems (protected characteristics).
On this basis the proposal is unacceptable and should be refused.