Chapter 1 - Introduction 1.0 Introduction As a Unitary Authority the Marlborough District Council has the powers, functions and responsibilities of both a regional and district council. Under the Resource Management Act 1991 it therefore has an obligation to prepare a Regional Policy Statement, a Coastal Plan, a District Plan and such other Regional Plans as are necessary. With its dual responsibilities as both a district and regional authority the Council has taken the opportunity to integrate the management of the resources of the Marlborough Sounds in an unprecedented way by preparing this combined Regional, District and Coastal Plan, known as the Marlborough Sounds Resource Management Plan. 1.1 Plan Purpose The purpose of the Plan is to promote the sustainable management of the natural and physical resources of the Marlborough Sounds area including the coastal environment while avoiding, remedying and mitigating any adverse effects of activities on the environment and to promote the integrated management of that area. In particular the Plan sets out the significant issues relating to: Natural Character; Freshwater; Indigenous Flora and Fauna and Their Habitats; Landscape; Tangata Whenua and Heritage; Air; Public Access; the Coastal Marine Area; Urban Environment; Rural Environment; Open Space; Soil Conservation; Discharges of Waste to Land; Undesirable Plants and Animals; Natural Hazards; Hazardous Substances and Facilities; Land and Water Transportation; Utilities; Outdoor Advertising; Noise; and Subdivision and Development. The Plan sets out objectives, policies and methods, including rules, to resolve these issues and to promote the sustainable management of the natural and physical resources of the Marlborough Sounds. Accordingly, a number of issues or activities may be affected by the Objectives and Policies from several sections of the Plan. This combined plan integrates the sustainable management of natural and physical resources. 1.2 Overview of Resource Issues Marlburians and an increasing number of people from further afield are quick to show enthusiasm for, and pay tribute to, the unique landscape and community of the Marlborough Sounds. Although extensively modified by human activity the area is particularly interesting because of the diversity of physical features and the wide range of activities carried out. Many people can identify with the “working environment” of the Sounds and its use as an economic base by farmers, commercial fishers, marine farmers, foresters, tourism operators and associated industry workers and business people. Most, if not all of us appreciate the recreational opportunities the area offers - the strong landscape and seascape; the chance to “get away from it all”; places to explore from the land or the sea; the opportunity to enjoy the Sounds’ lifestyle as a visitor or as a bach owner; time to do a spot of recreational fishing, diving or boating. 1 1