Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask Her Majesty’s Government how they plan actively to promote physical activity in the light of reports that cities that do so experience increases in retail activity and revenue, and lower healthcare and crime costs.

The Government recognises the health, economic and social benefits to individuals, communities and the nation of increasing physical activity levels. Through the Government’s National Planning Policy Framework, local authorities are encouraged to ensure development plans and proposals promote active, healthy lifestyles and well-being including active travel, like cycling and walking, and access to high quality open space and sport and recreation facilities. It is for local authorities, as statutory planning bodies, to determine how best to apply this guidance in their own area.