ABSTRACT
This chapter explores how some of the challenges to achieving sustainable development goals can be overcome through the use of sustainability indicators. An in-depth analysis of quantified targets and indicators linked to sustainability objectives to reduce Greenfield development and to further urban regeneration through re-use of previously developed land including brownfields exemplifies both the potential and the limitations of indicator based monitoring. Monitoring general trends and conditions which are of environmental and spatial relevance should be part of survey and review processes of statutory plans and programs as well as an integrated part of strategic environmental assessments and sustainability appraisals. The data source for the headline indicator, National Land-use Change Statistics (LUCS), is based on Ordnance Survey (OS) information which includes a time-lag between completion of development and incorporation into OS maps. The strengths and potential weaknesses of monitoring at the regional, sub-regional, and local levels are exemplified by case studies in the South East of England.
