Managing spatial conflict in a coastal zone : case study : Wied iz-Zurrieq

Abstract

The coastal zone encompasses a variety of valuable resources where usually the different users compete for utilization of the natural resources. This results in intense human activities, which can sometimes be a threat to the most valuable natural complexes. The principles of coastal planning and management, have been introduced to, among other things, attempt to resolve such land use conflicts along the coast. This dissertation examines the case of the coastal zone of Wied iz- Zurrieq. This rural area includes a number of competing recreational and economic activities. It was the purpose of this study to identify such spatial conflicts in Wied iz- Zurrieq and to give guidelines for a management scheme which should be incorporated into a local programme. Aerial photographs and GIS were used to determine land use changes over Wied iz- Zurrieq. In addition, quantitative and qualitative means of data collection were used to identify these conflicts through the main stakeholders of Wied iz- Zurrieq. Upon analysing the data, through the matrices analyses, it was evident that conflict exist on the inlet and shoreline and also in the parking area. Furthermore, boat storage also appeared to be an issue. In addition, management of this zone proved to be very difficult due to the fact that consensus about how the site should be managed is difficult to achieve, mostly because of the conflict of interest between different stakeholders. This dissertation was concluded with a set of management schemes which aimed to establish an integrated and sustainable approach towards solving of the identified spatial issues. The proposed site management scheme also aimed to exclude any 'Mega-Projects' which could put financial and enforcement difficulties to the authorities.