The purpose of this chapter is to promote the health, safety and general welfare of the residents of the town; to encourage the most appropriate use of land throughout the municipality; to preserve the character of the town; to promote traffic safety; to provide safety from fire and other elements; to provide adequate light and air; to prevent overcrowding of real estate; to promote a wholesome home environment; to prevent housing development in unsuitable areas; to provide an allotment of land area in new developments sufficient for all the requirements of community life; to conserve natural resources; and to provide for adequate public services as an integral part of a comprehensive plan for municipal development.