The planning system is neglecting the rights and needs of children, a new report has warned today.

The report, published the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI), found that over the past 50 years there has been a ‘drastic reduction’ in the use of outdoor spaces by children, leading to detrimental effects on their health.

It calls for a more rights-based approach to future planning policies, which would include children in decision-making processes.

Professor Aude Bicquelet-Lock, deputy head of policy and research at the RTPI, said: ‘If we are honest and serious about building inclusive and diverse communities, we have to take into account children’s needs and rights.

‘Planning systems across the UK have obligations to meet these needs through both UK government commitments to the UNCRC, as well as Equalities and child-specific legislation.’