9. Public Access and Open Space Volume One [RPS, C, D] Policy 9.3.2 – Seek diversity in the type and size of open spaces and recreational facilities to meet local, district, regional and nationwide needs, by: (a) identifying areas with conservation value; (b) enabling a wide range of organised sports, recreation and community activities; (c) enabling low-key, everyday recreation and community activities to serve local communities; and (d) recognising and protecting the value of open space in the coastal marine area, high country environments and river beds. To achieve Objective 9.3, it is important to recognise different types of open space/recreational facilities are needed. Sub clause (a) of this policy sets the framework for the creation of zones to accommodate different types of open space areas or recreational facilities, ranging from land administered by the Department of Conservation through to neighbourhood reserves, sports fields, walkways, indoor sports facilities, swimming pools and other recreation facilities. Sub clause (d) acknowledges the significant contribution made by the coastal marine area and river beds to open space in Marlborough. Protecting these open space values may see some activities being regulated in specified areas. This policy also gives effect to the NZCPS by recognising the value of open space in the coastal marine area. The existing open space areas used for skiing activities in Marlborough’s high country environment also add to the diversity and range of open space areas available. [D] Policy 9.3.3 – Support the management of reserves through strategies and reserve management plans prepared under the Conservation and Reserves Acts. Integrated management of the resources contained within reserve land comes under the control of the Conservation Act 1987 and the Reserves Act 1977. Generally, the types of activities and consequently the acceptable effects within a reserve are indicated by management plans under the above legislation. (For example, the Conservation Management Strategy provides the management framework for land administered by the Department of Conservation.) The general intent of the MEP is therefore to only take on those matters requiring management or control under the RMA because they are not covered under other legislation. [D] Policy 9.3.4 – Identify those areas of Marlborough where there are or are likely to be deficiencies in the provision of open space and recreational facilities. Demand for recreation facilities in particular changes constantly with new activities arising or existing activities becoming more popular. The number, quality and type of reserves and facilities available is regularly reassessed and surveyed to ensure the needs of all sections of the community are being met. [C, D] Policy 9.3.5 – Ensure the community is adequately informed about areas of open space, reserves and recreational facilities and the opportunities available to access them. The Council and the Department of Conservation are responsible for the management of considerable areas of open space and reserve land in Marlborough. Educating the public about the ability to access these areas is important and already occurs to a significant extent through publicly available information on the Council’s website and through visitor centres. 9 – 12