AG 2004 10 18 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Goal- To preserve alid maintain scenic vistas and open space. Several methods of open space protection were discussed during the citizen-input phase of the land use planning process. It was decided that a multi-faceted approach would work best in achieving the plan area's open space goals. The following methods were preferred by residents of the plan area: Cluster Development A cluster develop is one tool commonly used to preserve open space. This technique sets a maximum density limitation rather than a minimum lot size for each development. In exchange for greater lot size and setback flexibility the developer agrees to preserve a percentage of the project area as permanent open space. The resulting open space may be used for reCreational and/or agricultural purposes. It also requires that the development be screen from adjacent roadways by vegetation, landscaped berm, or other types of o~aque screening. Most cluster development standards require that at least 30 to 50 percent of the total project area be preserved as open space in order to qualify as a cluster development. The current Midland and Cabarrus County Ordinances require that 30 pèrcent be preserved. The concept of clustering development on smaller lots in exchange for the preservation of open space is being used successfully in several area communities including Cabarrus County. Both t~e County and Town zoning regulations include provi~i~n.~. f~r . the. approval of cluster subdivisions. While the use of cluster subdivision techniques is being used successfully in the suburbanizing portions of the County they have not been widely used in this area. The major reason is poor soil conditions and the absence of public utilities in the unincorporated portions of the planning area. When an area Is already zoned to permit a density of one unit per acrè and soil conditions in thè area require an acre or more for a private septic system there is no incentive to use. of cluster development techniques available. At this time, the only feasible means for a cluster subdivision to occur would be for the development to include the provision of a private package sewer facility in order to permit development on lots smaller than an acre. Either the provision of public utilities or the reduction of permitted residential densities would encourage the use of cluster development techniques in the planning area. Q.-4- 21