Case Study of Land Exchange and Consolidation based on the Agriculture Promotion Areas Act

Cases of Niitsu City and Ogaki City

Abstract

Exchange and consolidation of lands under the Agriculture Promotion Areas Act is anticipated as a project for controlling land use in urban fringe.Actually, only two cases have beenrealized since the project's establishment.We analyzed these two cases (Niitsu City and Ogaki City) to clarify conditions for realization of the project.
The results may be summarized as follows:
1.One of the necessary conditions for realization is a concrete plan for large urban development and proper management of Agriculture Promotion Areas.
2.The method of land exchange must be compatible with the behavior of landowners.For example, in less urbanized regions, the area of exchanged lots is equal.On the other hand, in more urbanized regions, the price is equal.
3.The weight of tax on land exchange influences the motivation of landowners and local governments.
4.Generally, a hamlet self-government organization is expected to mediate the interests of landowners.But, when urbanization weaken its function, the local government staff has to be a substitute.