Towards improving decision making processes for rural subdivision

Abstract

Rural subdivision is merely a process of deciding where lines should be drawn on maps in order that the ownership of land can be ascribed. However, the subsequent use of land after rural subdivision has occurred causes much debate. It is unclear the circumstances under which rural subdivision is sustainable. Starting from the assumption that the decision making process for rural subdivision as it currently stands is inadequate this study sets out to explore the feasibility of transferring strategic management concepts from a business context to questions of rural subdivision.

It is suggested that the contextual elements of rural subdivision, including sustainable development, postmodernism, an emphasis on market allocation and the Resource Management Act, 1991. (RMA) must be reflected in any integrated decision making process. Findings indicate that an umbrella strategy, whereby a strategy document provides the first 'test' and the RMA provides a second focus, could be of use for making more integrated decisions on rural subdivision. An expanded role for district plans is envisaged.