Chapter 11 Urban Environments In the past, planning rules have restricted the type of retailing allowed within those outer parts of the Central Business Zone. This Plan, being prepared under the effects based Act does not continue this. Rather, in preparing the Wairau/ Awatere Resource Management Plan the Council has established two important matters: • There is a need for a cohesive and vibrant centre in Blenheim as a place of regional importance; and • The effects of all of the activities in the Central Business Zone need to be considered in a consistent manner. 11.3.1.1 Issue Managing the effects of an intensely developed commercial and retail sector, which is complemented by key community facilities, in a manner which promotes a vibrant and prosperous centre for Blenheim and Marlborough. Commercial activities such as retail outlets, offices, banks, restaurants, tourist accommodation and other services make an important contribution to the urban environment. The success and viability of an urban environment depends to a very large extent on the vibrancy and vitality of its commercial centre. Modern society has become very dependent on motor vehicles and it is considered that, for provincial centres to remain vibrant, they must cater for this dependency. The Council’s Regional Land Transport Strategy addresses this issue. The Council also maintains a long term carparking strategy which provides for a balance between long and short term parking needs. The Council has used zoning as a method of identifying the town’s business area resource. Within the zone there is a further delineation of areas to accommodate the impact of zone specific car parking activity. The effects of activities can then be managed as they relate to the zone and to the wider urban environment. The Council has and will continue to take an active role in the promotion and establishment of community facilities. New Zealand society is changing rapidly and the expectations of the community of how services and leisure time are consumed are also changing. In addition, people are working longer hours. The impact of these changes has caused much debate and analysis of what people want from their leisure time and how Local Government should respond. Leisure and recreation are consumer and fashion driven and a greater emphasis is being placed on: • Freedom of choice; • Better service; • Competition for sponsorship; • Provision of quality facilities; • Entertainment; and • Event management. Over the next ten years there will be significant changes in how people elect to spend their leisure time and in the range of recreational opportunities which are available. These changes could include: • Greater consumer choice and expectation; 11 - 15