The key aims of the GI Tool are to:

• Provide a practical tool to help realise the aspirations of the Regional Spatial Strategy and other local policy;
• Become a principal mechanism for measuring implementation of relevant parts of the South West Regional Spacial Strategy within the West of England - particularly Sections 3.6 and 3.7, Development Policy D (Infrastructure for Development), and Development Policy F (Urban Extensions Master Planning);
• Build public confidence that environmental quality is an integral part of all new development within the Sub Region, and reduce public concern and opposition to high rates of growth;
• Remove uncertainty for planners and developers about what green space provision is appropriate for each new development within a strategic framework;
• Facilitate the bringing forward of sites for development and urban extensions by enabling planners and developers to demonstrate that sustainability / environmental issues have been addressed to an agreed local standard;
• Ensure that there is a consistent basis for the costing and financing of actual GI provision and maintenance as part of growth in the Sub Region;
• Assist in the preparation of Core Strategies within the new Local Development Frameworks; and
• Assist in the carrying out of Sustainability Assessments and Strategic Environmental Assessments.