Planning and management in the otranto-leuca nature park: Integration of approaches for an active conservation

Abstract

The Natural Regional Park of Costa d’Otranto, Santa Maria di Leuca, Bosco di Tricase, is a unique case in the Apulia region because the entire park is stretched along the coast. Along its 57 km there are many natural and historical values.In these areas the increased tourist settlements have recently created serious problems in the landscape, such as the fragmentation of continuity in the protection of the park, the reduction of ecological functions and the loss of landscape identity. The park now has a great opportunity because the territorial plan is currently being prepared: thiscan enable the positive integration between different planning policies, not only withthe protection of natural and cultural values and the environment but also by playing a key role in achieving new sustainable economic development for the entire territory.