The value of geology in planning

Abstract Geology is of fundamental importance as far as the planning of physical facilities and individual structure is concerned and recognition of this allows wise use of urban and rural land. As land is the surface expression of the underlying geology, planning should not proceed without fully appreciating geological conditions. Foundation, tunnels, transportation routes, etc. depend for their stability and performance on the geological setting. There are, however, three aspects of geology related to areal planning which are not quite so obvious. First, prior to land being developed it is desirable to know if any useful materials can be retrieved from it before construction starts. Sequential land planning is therefore important. Secondly, there is likely to be an increased utilization of underground space in the years ahead. Thirdly, all those concerned with planning must realise that groundwater is a dynamic system and that, in particular, watertables can rise and fall, and thereby can influence subsurface structures.