Social impacts of major resource development projects : Concerns for research and planning

Abstract

To summarise, this paper has arisen from a perceived need to carry out background research on both SIA and the characteristics of resource communities in New Zealand, with comparisons to overseas work. The authors have felt it imprudent to be involved in further "predictive" research without an adequate "review" base. Some of the central issues and concerns that we have identified for future research on major projects are presented here. It is hoped that the paper will promote critical discussion, and therefore contribute towards an expanded network of people interested in SIA in New Zealand. Further papers will follow from our research, providing detailed case studies of resource communities and discussing methodological and conceptual matters within SIA.