Vanuatu is highly vulnerable to extreme weather events, climate change and natural hazards such as tropical cyclones, tsunamis, storm surge, sea-level rise, flooding, prolonged droughts, ocean acidification earthquake related hazards and volcanic events.
The townships of Lenakel (on Tanna Island) & Lakatoro (on Malekula Island) have been earmarked for future development to support increased demand for services and tourism into the future. To support this development, it is essential for good planning to be undertaken. The susceptibility of both townships to natural disasters and to climate change are important considerations and associated risks need to be determined and used to underpin planning.
The Risk Assessment and Development of Town Plans for Tanna and Malekula Island, Vanuatu project is funded by the World Bank and commissioned by the Pacific Community (SPC). BMT supported by Atlas Urban and local consultants, has been engaged to undertake a natural hazard risk assessment and develop land use plans for the rapidly growing towns of Lenakel on Tanna Island and Lakatoro on Malekula island. Department of Urban Affairs and Planning (DUAP) and Department of Local Authorities (DLA) are leading this development. To support this work, a national Steering Committee has been set up by the Acting Deputy Prime Minister and minister for Internal Affairs Hon. Willie Daniel KALP (MP). The Town Plans will benefit the communities by strengthening early warning, resilient investments, and financial protection in Vanuatu. Additionally, it will provide a process that can be replicated for other towns throughout the Pacific.
A risk assessment has been undertaken through mapping and engagement with relevant stakeholders in Vanuatu. The community and agencies will have the opportunity to contribute their knowledge of local risk and values that need to be considered to create effective Town Plans. Regular project updates will be provided on social media and Department of Urban Affairs and Planning (DUAP) website.