9. Public Access and Open Space Volume One The zone for conservation purposes (Open Space 3 Zone) applies to open space intended to be retained largely in its natural state. Included in this zone are areas of native vegetation, natural ecosystems and important habitats, riparian margins and areas of outstanding landscape value that are in public ownership. An important aim for this zone is also the promotion of public access to and along the coast, lakes and rivers. The Zone will therefore be applied to areas identified as Sounds Foreshore Reserve, esplanade reserve or unformed road reserve that abuts the coastline. The Open Space 4 Zone provides for activities in Marlborough’s alpine environments where skiing takes place in winter months and other activities, such as mountain biking and walking, occur during summer. This Zone has been applied to Rainbow Skifield and the Mount Lyford Ski Area. [D] 9.M.2 District rules District rules permit activities based on the particular value associated with the reserve or type of reserve, subject to standards where these are necessary. The activities permitted in Open Space 1, 2, and 3 zones are largely based on activities that are allowed in management plans prepared for the reserve under the Conservation or Reserves Acts. Standards address matters to ensure open space areas are used and developed in a manner compatible with the amenities of adjoining areas, e.g. noise, car parking, building setbacks, etc. District rules will set out the circumstances when the setting aside of esplanade reserves or esplanade strips will be required. District rules also enable a range of activities to occur within the Open Space 4 Zone, particularly in relation to skifield activities. [C, R] 9.M.3 Regional rules Riparian margins will be protected through controls on activities on rivers, lakes and streambanks. The Council may include conditions on resource consents that restrict the rights of public access in accordance with Policy 9.2.1 and 9.2.2. Regional rules may regulate activities in specified areas to assist in protecting amenity values, public access, recreational values and areas of open space in the coastal environment. Regional rules also regulate activities relating to discharges to land, air and water and to activities taking place in sensitive high country environments. [RPS, C, R, D] 9.M.4 Long Term Plan Provision and maintenance of open space and recreational areas and facilities is provided for through the Long Term Plan, including funding arrangements. [D] 9.M.5 Walking and Cycling Strategy for Marlborough A Walking and Cycling Strategy for Marlborough has been prepared. The Council, together with the New Zealand Transport Agency, has developed this strategy with the help of many agencies and interest groups. This strategy aims to ensure that all people feel they have the choice to walk and cycle if they wish, and to reverse the New Zealand-wide downward trends in the numbers of people cycling and walking to work. The Marlborough Walking and Cycling Action Plan, which implements the Strategy, sets out locations and actions where cycling and walking opportunities can be enhanced for both urban and rural areas. 9 – 16