Lihir Island Group Regional Strategy

Papua New Guinea

Client: Lihir Gold Limited

The central study area comprises the main island of Lihir (aka Niolam) and the small islands of Mali, Mahur, Masahet and Sanambiet. The study also looks to the wider context of Papua New Guinea (PNG) and the South Pacific in order to identify precedents and possible responses to the challenges raised by the rapid transformation on the island. Spatial planning is vital for the delivery of sustainable development in the area.

The Strategy is based on a systematic analysis of the patterns in the region including such dimensions as transport, population, language, heath and tourism. This analysis has provided a clear basis to identify development strategies and set priorities. These priorities flow directly into the Urban Development Plan and the Local Development Plan. The Regional Strategy identifies the location advantages of the Island Group and formulates a vision describing its future role within the region.