ABSTRACT
Certain features of the land resource differentiate it from, say, air or water, since land is relatively fixed and finite in nature. Land also varies in terms of its inherent desirable qualities, such as its location, accessibility, productivity, or cultural meaning. A fundamental factor for the production and distribution of goods, land provides a life-supporting role. Using case studies, Spit explores the dilemmas at the regional level by examining strategic land banking by certain Dutch provinces. To British ears, the term 'land banking' is somewhat problematic, particularly in debates around housing land supply. One explanation was that certain volume housebuilders were using strategic land banking tactics for profit, since early assembly of land can accrue greater uplift, or betterment, as the land progresses through the planning process. The strategic control offered by land banking, as understood in the Dutch context, can potentially better serve regional objectives.
