Marlborough Sounds Resource Management Plan has also been incorporated into the Conservation Zone. This zone seeks to promote public access. The Council may include conditions on resource consents that: • Require jetties to be shared with adjoining properties; • Where public access to and along rivers and streams, within the Sounds area, is desirable; • Allow general public access across jetties; • Restrict the rights of public access in accordance with Policy 8.3.1.8 above. A schedule and associated maps identifies significant water bodies where rules apply to specify the width of riparian management zones on criteria which includes provision of public access and recreation. Subdivision The reserves policy, contained within Chapter 23, and criteria set out in Volume Two (Chapter 28 Standard Requirements for Subdivision and Development) establish the circumstances under which esplanade reserves will be acquired. Guidelines Guidelines prepared by the Council will assist applicants to consider where structures in the coastal marine area should be located and how they should be designed so as to minimise the effects on public access. Research Council will carry out research to assess the need for enhancement of physical access to and along the coastal marine area, lakes and rivers. Voluntary On the basis of proven need the Council may negotiate for Agreement access strips to enhance public access to and along the coastal marine area and the margins of wetland, lakes and rivers. Rules and conditions are considered appropriate to use for the promotion of public access. The acquisition of esplanade reserves and negotiation of strips upon subdivision of land will enhance public access to the coast, lakes and rivers. Because the nature of the Sounds shoreline is so irregular, it is difficult to pre- determine standards for location and design of structures. Therefore, guidelines are seen as an appropriate means of assisting applicants in deciding where to locate structures and their design. 8.5 Anticipated Environmental Results Implementation of the policies and methods relating to public access will result in: • Public access maintained to at least current levels; • Improved access through the acquisition of esplanade reserves and negotiation of strips; and • Minimum interference on foreshore from structures. 8 - 4