The plot thickens

Abstract

Coventry City Council is pioneering the use of geographical information systems (GIS) in local council decision making. GIS is used as a general maintenance tool as well as for strategic management decisions. The system uses MapInfo software for manipulating mapping information coupled with FoxPro software for the land availablity database, and dynamic data exchange between database and mapping data. The GIS is being used for a range of applications including identifying suitable land for inward investment, in support of sustainability initiatives, and air pollution emissions measurement. Community groups and members of the public are being given access to the GIS.