Ministry of the Interior Approves Tainan City's Land Use Zoning Map; 19 Cities/Counties Completed

The National Land Agency stated in a press release today that the 47th meeting of the Land Use Planning Review Committee reviewed and approved the "Tainan City Land Use Zoning Map (Draft)". Regarding concerns from civic groups about land use zoning adjustments for the Sand Island area due to the science park and surrounding development needs, which could impact Oriental Bay Owl habitats, the committee agreed to withdraw the proposed zoning adjustments for the science park and surrounding areas after hearing explanations from the Tainan City Government and the National Science Council representatives. The National Land Agency stated that major construction projects within the approved scope, including the National Space Center Tainan Sand Island Integrated Testing and R&D Base and the Anping Commercial Port surplus earth disposal area (embankment project), have been approved in principle. The National Land Agency pointed out that the land use zoning map is currently in the drawing stage. In addition to accommodating necessary major construction projects approved by the Executive Yuan, the Tainan City Government should pragmatically plan and designate appropriate land use zones according to the guidance of national and local land use plans, and fully communicate with local residents to reach consensus. Furthermore, even if designated as urban development areas, subsequent land development application procedures will still be required, meaning development is not immediate upon designation. The National Land Agency said that the zoning maps for all 19 cities and counties nationwide have been reviewed. They also requested the Tainan City Government to cooperate with the committee's resolution, guide rational land utilization, and implement environmental conservation and sustainable land management. (Editor: Lin Xingmeng) 1150407