AP - Towards A Rural Land Use Planning Framework For The Agulhas Plain, South Africa

The Agulhas Plain lies at the southern-most tip of Africa and falls within the Cape Floral Kingdom. It covers an area of approximately 2 160 km2 of coastal lowlands and low hills. This exceptionally species-rich area has been severely fragmented by alien plant infestation, agriculture and urban development. In order to guide conservation efforts whilst addressing the socio-economic needs in the area, a process of rural area-wide planning has commenced in the region. This is carried out by the Landcare division of the Department of Agriculture in partnership with conservation authorities, farmers, local government and communities. Agritourism is identified as a high- potential industry in this region. In order to guide decision-making, an intensive data-collection exercise has commenced, whereby land use on the Plain is being mapped at 1:10 000 scale and relevant information is collated in a Geographic Information System (GIS). This paper will examine the role which GIS, spatial data and associated technologies play in the project – and specifically how the information generated is made relevant and accessible to regional planners and indeed all role players.

Key words: Geographic Information System, rural development, spatial planning, rural planning, agritourism.