Investigating a Genetic Algorithm based Decision Support System for the Location of New Major Housing Allocations within the Local Plan Process

Abstract

This paper describes the use of genetic algorithms to assist in deciding which land to allocate for housing development. It starts by providing a background to relevant aspects of the UK planning process and the role of a decision support system. Two genetic algorithm formulations for the positioning of housing allocations are proposed which take into account the geography of the area under consideration and the availability of transport, as well as the more traditional aspects of site costs and convenience. Example experiments with the genetic algorithm are provided and the results critically assessed. These indicate that the genetic algorithm approach appears to provide a potentially practical method to address a complex decision-making problem.