Decision making using OS maps: choosing the best site for a development in the rural-urban fringe

These OS map based activities aim to develop decision making and map analysis skills. They are relevant to learners in the 14-16 and 16+ age groups who are considering the impact of developments in the rural-urban fringe of urban areas. The Decision Making Matrix will help them to choose the best site on a map for a housing estate, retail park and industrial estate, using location factors and map evidence. The activities are based on OS 1:50,000 Map Extracts or any OS map of any urban area. A generic version of the OS Decision Making Matrix is provided. More advanced learners can choose their own possible sites for a new development and create relevant location factors.