A draft policy offering greater protection for open spaces has been published by the Scottish Executive.

The proposals, if implemented, would represent the first major revision of Scottish planning policy in more than a decade, announced communities minister, Malcolm Chisholm.

Under the new policy, local authorities would have to carry out an audit of open space and prepare a strategy for the management of existing valued open spaces.

Chisholm said that healthy living issues were a primary factor in the decision: "Open spaces are the green lungs for our towns, cities and villages.

"Improving Scotland's appalling health record is a key priority for the Executive. It is vital that people have every opportunity to get out in the fresh air and take healthy exercise."

Local authorities will also have to consult sportscotland on any development which leads to the loss of sports facilities, such as playing fields, bowling greens or tennis courts – a move which has been welcomed by sportscotland.

Chair, Julia Bracewell, said: "Experience has shown that our involvement in the planning system as a statutory consultee and the consistent application of our policy for the protection of playing fields has reduced the overall number of pitches being lost and secured significant amounts of new investment for both replacement and upgraded facilities."

SPP11 Physical Activity and Open Space will now go out for public consultation until November. Details: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/News/News-Today