Agro-urban open space as a component of agricultural multifunctionality

Abstract

The concept of agro-urban open space (AUOS) is presented as a multifunctional component within the context of how agricultural land uses contribute to the creation of open spaces. This contribution is represented through specific multifunctionality mapping, underlining the importance of spatial representation at a local, and even a plot, scale when dealing with agricultural multifunctionality. To this end we have undertaken a review of agricultural multifunctionality and open-space concepts to locate existing deficiencies as far as the required spatial dimension in planning is concerned. Issues such as permeability, access and other elements enhancing open spaces have been assessed to obtain partial maps and a final map showing the general values for AUOS at a plot level. The proposed method has been tested in a Mediterranean delta, the Vega del Guadalfeo, on the coast of the province of Granada in Spain. We found sugarcane and subtropical farming to be the main contributors to AUOS. The AUOS map presented here constitutes a visual tool for the location of multifunctional spaces, which may be taken advantage of by local planners given that they are working at the same scales.