SPPS Strategic Planning Policy Statement Edition 2 (December 2025)·Page 69·Diagram 3
Sequential Approach for Settlement Site Identification
The sequential approach for identifying suitable sites applies to settlements of over 5,000 population, though in some circumstances it may be appropriate to apply it below this threshold. The approach prioritises use of previously developed urban land, then urban extensions, then village expansion, then new settlements.
Diagram 3: Application of a sequential approach and identification of suitable sites
Step 1: Use previously developed and undeveloped land within the urban footprint, informed by urban capacity studies
Step 2: Extensions to cities and towns
Step 3: Exceptional major expansion of a village or small rural settlement
Step 4: New settlements
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