Volume One 13. Use of the Coastal Environment expectation that they have a right to use and enjoy this area for a variety of purposes. They place significant amenity value on the coastal environment and its use for recreation. This environment therefore needs to be safeguarded for future generations. Due to the range of recreational activities undertaken and the large number of users, the natural and physical resources of the coastal environment are at times placed under pressure. The cumulative effects of recreational use can include littering, sewage disposal from boats, damage to coastal vegetation and benthic (organisms that live in or on the bottom sediments) habitat and conflicts between users, all of which detract from public enjoyment of this area. There is also potential for conflict to arise between recreational and other users of the coastal environment; there may therefore be a need to manage activities in particular areas to avoid these conflicts. [RPS, R, C, D] Objective 13.3 – Recreation continues to make a significant contribution to people’s health and wellbeing and to Marlborough’s tourism industry, whilst avoiding adverse effects on the environment. Given the extent of Marlborough’s coastline and the fact that the coast is readily accessible for many people, outdoor recreation both on land and in the sea is one of the most important activities that take place within this environment. The diversity of recreational opportunities available is a major reason for its popularity with local residents and domestic and international tourists. Over time these recreational activities have become a significant contributor to Marlborough’s tourism industry. Additionally and significantly, recreation contributes to the health and wellbeing of local communities. [R, C, D] Policy 13.3.1 – A permissive approach to recreational activities will be adopted, except where these: (a) require associated structures and occupy the coastal marine area; (b) cause adverse environmental effects, including those resulting from discharges of contaminants, excessive noise and damage to significant indigenous vegetation and significant habitats of indigenous fauna; (c) do not maintain or enhance public access to and along the coastal marine area; (d) endanger public health and safety; (e) compromise authorised uses and developments of the coastal marine area; or (f) adversely affect the amenity values of the area. Recreation is arguably the most significant way in which the general public gain direct benefit from the coastal environment. Therefore, such activity should be permitted unless it requires associated structures, occupies the coastal marine area in terms of Section 12 of the RMA, or causes adverse effects such as those identified in (b) to (f). [C] Policy 13.3.2 – Maintain and enhance opportunities for recreational use of the coastal marine area. Recreational use of the coast is likely to increase and become more diverse in the future. Linked with national direction to recognise and provide for public access to and along the coastal marine area as a matter of national importance, the Council considers there is a need to maintain and enhance opportunities for recreational use of the coastal environment. 13 – 9