10. Heritage Resources and Notable Trees Volume One Issue 10A – Marlborough’s historic heritage may be lost or adversely affected by changes in land use and land use management practices. Marlborough’s historic heritage is vulnerable to the use and development of natural and physical resources. Changes brought about as a result of resource use can involve the demolition, relocation or modification of heritage resources. These changes have the significant potential to either completely eliminate or otherwise reduce the historic heritage values of the heritage resource. Archaeological sites are particularly vulnerable to land disturbance, as they tend to be buried and excavation at, or in close proximity to, the site can unearth the object of significance. If appropriate action is not taken, the heritage resource that was previously buried can potentially be damaged or destroyed. For archaeological sites that have a connection to Marlborough’s tangata whenua iwi, such adverse effects can also cause a serious cultural affront to the mana of an iwi. One of the threats to historic heritage is that there are many unknown areas of heritage significance. For example, although past archaeological studies have revealed a little of the Māori and early European settlement patterns and culture, much more remains to be identified, researched and recorded. There will also be forgotten sites. The lack of awareness of the existence of a heritage resource makes the resource vulnerable to irreparable damage as a result of land use change. Managing environmental change is a significant challenge as it recognises the needs of the community to develop and grow, while ensuring that heritage resources are retained for present and future generations. Protection of heritage resources does not necessarily mean that the heritage resource cannot be developed; some heritage resources, such as buildings, may be able to be reused or redeveloped in a way that enhances the heritage value. Intervention, in the form of alteration or addition, may also be required to actively protect the heritage resource. It is important to acknowledge that it can be difficult to balance safety objectives, especially in terms of fire and earthquake, with the retention of historic buildings. The earthquake risk presented by some historic buildings has resulted in their demolition in the past. Heritage resources can also be vulnerable because of a lack of care and maintenance. [RPS] Objective 10.1 – Retain and protect heritage resources that contribute to the character of Marlborough. Historic heritage makes a significant contribution to the identity of Marlborough and provides us with a sense of place; and in doing so adds to the social and cultural wellbeing of our community. It is therefore important for heritage resources to be retained. However, retention alone does not necessarily ensure protection as many heritage resources, especially buildings, need to be maintained on an ongoing basis given their age. Where maintenance has not occurred or where past development has not taken into account a resource’s heritage values, heritage resources may need to be actively enhanced to improve the contribution they currently make to our social and cultural wellbeing. This objective also reflects the Council’s obligations under Sections 6(e) and 6(f) of the RMA. [RPS, C, D] Policy 10.1.1 – Manage Marlborough’s heritage resources in association with Heritage New Zealand, the Department of Conservation, the New Zealand Archaeological Association, Marlborough’s tangata whenua iwi, other heritage organisations and the local community. Multiple agencies and groups are involved in the protection of Marlborough’s historic heritage. It is important that the actions of all are co-ordinated to ensure integrated management of heritage resources and to foster positive relationships between these agencies and groups. This policy signals that the Council will actively involve a wide range of groups and organisations in managing Marlborough’s heritage resources. 10 – 2