5 March 2015 Chapter 11 Urban Environments d) The development is to be carried out in stages, timed in response to the demand for residential sites. The first stages are to be to the north-east quadrant and the development will then progress west and south. e) At least one, and not more than two, internal roads are to give direct access from the internal road network to New Renwick Road. f) Walking linkages are to be provided to give access to New Renwick Road. g) Additional internal roads, lanes and pedestrian-cycle access ways will be located where required to suit the detailed layout of the housing, including provisions for pedestrian-cycle connections at appropriate points. A pedestrian-cycle link is to be provided in the south-east corner to provide easy recreation access from the internal road network to the Taylor River floodway reserve. h) The internal road network is to provide easy connections throughout the block and to discourage excessive vehicle speeds. Each stage is to include provision for connections to future stages, to ensure that the final road network functions seamlessly. i) At least two neighbourhood reserves are to be located within walking distance of all residential lots. Their sizes will be determined at the time of subdivision in accordance with Policy 23.5.1.18. j) Each reserve is to be bounded by roads on at least two sides of its perimeter. k) Seek to optimise solar access to main living room windows or main private open spaces throughout the block. The Act requires that, in relation to the use, development and protection of natural and physical resources, particular regard be given to the maintenance and enhancement of amenity values, (Section 7(c)). This issue is further clarified by Policy 7.1.7 of the Marlborough Regional Policy Statement, “promote the enhancement of the amenity values provided by the unique character of Marlborough settlements and locations”. The objective and policies above address amenity values and visual character for the residential environment. The residential character that has developed within the residential areas of Blenheim, Renwick, Seddon, Ward, Spring Creek, Grovetown, Tuamarina, Rarangi and Wairau Valley is predominantly one of low density with single dwellings on individual sites; low building height; attractive buildings; open garden landscape; and wide streetscape. The exception to this is found in the higher density areas of central Blenheim. Nonetheless a lot of the same character and amenity still remain on these sites. Community consultation confirms that the overall character, density, and the overall quality of the local environment is important to residents. These qualities are the principal reason for the attractiveness of the residential areas. Particular amenities which contribute to that character and which the community seeks to protect include: 11 - 9