Chapter 23 - Subdivision and Development 23.0 Subdivision and Development 23.1 Introduction Subdivision activities are specifically recognised as a category of activity in Section 11 of the Act, distinct from land use activities. The control of subdivision is a specific matter of relevance to district plans as identified in Sections 9 and 31 of the Act. Subdivision is closely related to land use, in that it creates a framework for the establishment of land use activities (in terms of the creation of additional titles) and is clearly linked to subsequent land use expectations of land owners. Because of this linkage, the effects of land subdivision are long term and cumulative. The subdivision of land is closely related to the influences of natural and other hazards in terms of the suitability of subdivided land for anticipated land uses. Subdivision is the most common mechanism for the provision of esplanade reserves, esplanade strips and access strips, which are a major factor in terms of conserving natural features and providing public access to and along waterways and the coastline in terms of Section 6 of the Act. Subdivision is closely associated with the relationship between land uses, and site areas, dimensions and related standards for the size of buildings and the space around them. Finally, it is the process which provides the framework of services provision for land uses, including roading, water supply, sewage disposal, energy, telecommunications, stormwater and trade wastes, in addition to being a mechanism for the provision of land for open space and recreation. In most cases financial contributions towards the provision of land for open space and recreation or esplanade purposes, or towards the provision of roading and services are taken at the stage of subdivision of the land. However, in some instances land use development and activities are undertaken without associated subdivision of land. The resultant requirements for additional services are the same for developments with or without subdivision and accordingly this section also considers contributions on land use developments and activities which do not involve subdivision. The Act provides that financial contributions may be a contribution in the form of money, land, works or services, or any combination of these made for the purposes specified in the Plan. 23.2 Issue Recognising the inherent constraints of the natural environment. There are areas within the Plan boundary which because of risk of natural hazards including flooding, inundation, geo faultlines, fire, erosion, subsidence or slippage, would be unsuitable for development, or require specific measures to be undertaken to overcome, or reduce the risk of these hazards. 23 - 1