Ordinance Survey Map (Settlement)

Flat Land (SRP 1 - Infrastructure)

Flat land provides a stable and cost-effective foundation for building homes, roads, and infrastructure. Developers face fewer challenges such as rock excavation or land grading, making construction more straightforward and less expensive.

Flat Land (SRP 2 - Town Expansion)

It also allows for easier expansion of the town over time. As the population grew, the town could spread outward in all directions without physical barriers. This is evident from the layout of the road network and housing estates on the map.

Flat Land (SRP 3 - Fertile Soils)

flat land is often associated with fertile soils, making it ideal for early settlers who relied on farming. Access to productive land would have supported both subsistence and commercial agriculture, encouraging long-term settlement.

Next to Mountainous Areas (SRP 1 - Shelter)

Mountains offered a natural shelter from harsh weather conditions, especially prevailing winds. This shelter made the lower-lying town area more suitable for living and farming.

Next to Mountainous Areas (SRP 3 - Resources)

Mountainous areas historically provided resources such as timber, stone, and in some cases minerals. These resources would have been valuable for building materials, fuel, and local industry, all of which supported the town’s economy.

Next to Mountainous Areas (SRP 3 - Protection)

The rugged terrain of the mountains acted as a natural barrier against invaders in the past. Towns built near or behind mountains were often safer from attack, which encouraged early settlement and helped the town to grow in relative security.

Located Near Water Source (SRP 1 - Fresh Water)

A river provided a reliable source of fresh water for drinking, washing, and irrigation, which was crucial for the survival of early settlers and the development of agriculture.

Located Near Water Source (SRP 2 - Transportation)

In the past, rivers acted as important transport routes before the development of road and rail networks. Boats could carry goods and people to and from the town, linking it to regional trade networks.

Located Near Water Source (SRP 3 - Development)

The presence of water also allowed for the development of water-powered mills and industries such as milling, brewing, or textiles. These industries often formed the economic backbone of towns and created employment opportunities.