A subdivision at Magill has been inspected with respect to its suitability for residential development. The subdivision straddles three north running spurs having average slopes of 15° (steeper in the reserves). Two deep gullies separate the spurs. Phyllite and quartzite bedrock probably lie at shallow depth beneath the entire subdivision with a thin cover (less than 1m) of brown clay soil, low plasticity (CL) containing gravel fragments. Proximity to the Eden and Montacute Fault lines means that the area may be subject to future seismic activity. It is considered that the area is suitable for residential development provided attention is given to the following points: • Housing foundations should be placed on bedrock as a precaution against possible seismic activity. • Due to conditions of potential instability caused by unfavourable orientation of bedrock defects, rock cuts should not exceed 1m in depth. Vegetation should be planted on reserve slopes to reduce risk of long term soil erosion. • Adequate drainage easements must be left to cope with runoff along the two steep gullies. To allow for this Lot 36 should be excised and Lots 18, 19 and 25, 26 combined. The subdivision overlooks an active clay pit and brickworks. Possible additional clay reserves occur on the subdivision but these are considered of less importance than reserves already proved to the north and east of the brick works.