Volume One 12. Urban Environments maintained. The specific properties that have developed with the larger allotment size are scheduled in Appendix 16. Business environments Issue 12B – A loss in the vitality, viability and/or identity of Marlborough’s business environments may result either where inappropriate activities are located within these environments or when the fragmentation of business areas occurs. The consolidation of business areas is important to ensure that people have access to well- maintained and functioning business areas with a wide range of business activities that maintain their vitality, pleasantness and convenience. The dispersal of some business activities to new locations can leave existing areas vacant, under-utilised, unattractive and unable to provide the services desired by the community. The consolidation of business areas makes efficient use of public investment in roads and other services, assists in retaining the vitality of business areas and the perception of Marlborough’s towns as prosperous and lively centres. [RPS, D] Objective 12.4 – Marlborough has a well-structured and economically and socially successful range of business environments where the vitality, viability and identity of these environments is retained and enhanced. Buildings and infrastructure within business environments represent significant investment and are part of the physical resource of the District. Business and industrial activities provide employment and generate economic activity, enabling communities to provide for their economic and social wellbeing. The land and buildings within business areas provide the space and resources for these activities to take place and it is therefore necessary to recognise their significance for Marlborough’s economy and to ensure these business areas are well-maintained, functioning and provide for a wide range of activities. [D] Policy 12.4.1 – Provide for a wide range of commercial and industrial activities in a variety of zones to encourage vibrant and viable business centres. The use of zones enables activities to occur in specified and established areas of Marlborough’s urban environments. Areas zoned as Business and Industrial are based in part on the nature of commercial and industrial activities that have existed for some time with largely known effects. Some areas have been zoned specifically for large retail format in recognition of the need to provide for retailing that requires large areas of associated car-parking or outdoor space. The variety of business environments within Marlborough’s towns is reflected in the differences in zoning approach. [D] Policy 12.4.2 – The central business areas of Blenheim and Picton provide a focus for retail, commercial business, employment, leisure, visitor accommodation and cultural activities. The principal business and retail areas in Marlborough are those situated in central Blenheim and Picton, the largest settlements within the District. A wide range of important activities occur within these central business areas, including retail shops, professional and administrative offices, civic and community facilities, emergency service activities, personal and household services, entertainment facilities, restaurants and bars. These areas serve both their respective resident population as well as the needs of travellers and tourists. Blenheim's central business area also serves an extensive rural area, while Picton is a focal point for residents and visitors to the Marlborough Sounds. These centres need to be cohesive and vibrant and therefore subsequent 12 – 13