Ordnance Survey

be identified for development, it may in fact remain undeveloped for many years. This is the method with the greatest potential, but does involve time, perseverance, expertise and hard work. Having initially defined the area of interest, the developer can, with the aid of Ordnance Survey maps and on-the-spot investigations, identify sites with development possibilities. These may include infill sites or sites with low density development, which are suitable for redevelopment. The identity and addresses of landowners can be established by talking to local people. Contact with landowners may be made by post or by personal visits. Owners of properties with large gardens often have no idea of the development potential and value of their land. A reasonable offer may well be accepted, particularly where the area of the whole property is less than one acre, owner-occupied, and therefore exempt from tax. It should be emphasised that if the reputation of the developer for fair dealing is to be maintained, offers made for land found in this manner should be fair and reasonable, as from time to time speculators have