Chapter 5 - Landscape 5.0 Landscape 5.1 Introduction Section 6(b) of the Act requires that provision be made in the Plan for “the protection of outstanding natural features and landscapes from inappropriate subdivision, use and development.” The Marlborough Regional Policy Statement develops this further in Policy 8.1.3 “avoid, remedy or mitigate the damage of identified outstanding landscape features arising from the effects of excavation, disturbance of vegetation, or erection of structures. ” In addition, the dynamic landscapes and seascapes of the coastal environment are among the most important components of natural character and amenity values in the Sounds, both requiring provision for their preservation [sections 6(a) and 7(c) of the Act]. Many areas with outstanding landscape values are also areas of high natural character. The visual and scenic qualities of coastal landscapes and seascapes also contribute to amenity, recreational, and tourism values and thereby enhance the social and economic wellbeing of the community. The Marlborough Sounds has landscapes which are unique in New Zealand and are valued for their semi-wilderness aspects, scenic beauty, recreational capability and their social, economic and cultural utility. This chapter of the Plan establishes objectives, policies and methods to achieve the protection of these valued landscapes from inappropriate subdivision, use and development. 5.1.1 Identification of Outstanding Natural Features and Landscapes In its entirety, the landscape of the Marlborough Sounds Plan area has outstanding visual values. It displays a broad range of types of visual landscapes and features which are often of greater value for their collective contribution than for their individual value. The location of the Sounds at the top of the South Island with the role as a sea corridor and gateway to the South Island ensures a high public profile as a travel route. Some of the visual features of the Sounds which contribute significantly to its outstanding character are: • The curving coastline with a range of tidal estuaries and sandy and rocky beaches; • Island landforms set with a skyline backdrop; • Highly weathered coastal cliffs; • Rolling ridgelines along the skyline; • A complex mosaic of vegetation patterns which gives rise to a range of textures and colours in the landscape; and • Uninterrupted sequence from hilltop to seafloor. 5 1