Volume One 14. Use of the Rural Environment [D] Policy 14.4.1 – Subdivision, use and development of Marlborough’s rural environments should be of a density, scale, intensity and location that individually and cumulatively recognises the following elements: (a) a lack of buildings and structures; (b) a very high ratio of open space in relation to areas covered by buildings; (c) open space areas in pasture, trees, vineyards, crops or indigenous vegetation; (d) areas with regenerating indigenous vegetation, particularly in the Marlborough Sounds; (e) tracts of unmodified natural features, indigenous vegetation, streams, rivers and wetlands; (f) farm animals and wildlife; (g) noises, smells and sights of agriculture, viticulture, horticulture and forestry; (h) post and wire fences, purpose-built farm buildings and scattered dwellings; (i) low population density; (j) the presence of Blenheim, Omaka and Koromiko airports; (k) generally narrow carriageways within wide road reserves, often unsealed with open drains, low-speed geometry and low traffic volumes; and (l) a general absence of urban-scale and urban-type infrastructure, such as roads with kerb and channel, footpaths, mown berms, street lights or advertising signs. Rural environments are working and living environments. They provide much of the character and amenity values of the District as a whole. The character of rural environments needs to be recognised for its natural, social, cultural and economic values, as well as its role in enabling a range of lifestyles and activities. Subdivision or development by its density, scale or location has the potential, individually or cumulatively, to adversely affect amenity values and rural character. This policy sets out the characteristics or elements of Marlborough’s rural environments that are to be recognised in the maintenance or enhancement of amenity values. [D] Policy 14.4.2 – Retain an open and spacious character in Marlborough’s rural environments with a dominance of open space and plantings over buildings by ensuring that the scale and siting of development is such that: (a) it will not unreasonably detract from the privacy or outlook of neighbouring properties; (b) sites remain open and with a rural character as viewed from roads and other publicly accessible places; and (c) the character and scale of buildings is compatible with existing development within the surrounding rural area. An important component of maintaining or enhancing amenity values relates to retaining an open and spacious character to such areas. Policy 14.4.2 identifies this and provides ways in which development can be sited to ensure these values are appropriately provided for. [D] Policy 14.4.3 – Ensure buildings are set back a sufficient distance from property boundaries and road frontages to: (a) maintain privacy and outlook for people on adjoining allotments, including for existing houses on small allotments; 14 – 9