Help or Hindrance? The relationship between land use planning and urban agriculture on the Gold Coast

Abstract

Cities have always been dependent on a variety of resources including food for their survival. Supplying food to Australian cities relies on lengthy, complex and potentially vulnerable networks, which are being threatened by climate change, peak oil and economic crises. Recently, greater attention has been devoted to urban agriculture and its potential to contribute to urban food security. However, for urban agriculture to play its role most effectively, it needs to become an essential part of the fabric of planning. This chapter explores the relationship between urban agricultural practices and land use planning on the Gold Coast, Queensland; Australia's sixth largest city. Through the analysis of key planning policies and instruments, it explores the possibilities and barriers for agriculture to become a greater part of the urban realm and contribute to increasing local food security.