Chapter 23 - Subdivision and Development 23.3 Issue Recognising that subdivision can impact on significant natural features. The pattern of subdivision can have an impact on the likely management of parcels of land which have significant natural values, particularly subdivisions adjacent to rivers and streams. It is desirable that the pattern of land subdivisions recognise the natural boundaries of features on the ground, and provide the opportunity for these to be set aside and protected. Similarly, opportunity may also be provided through land use development which does not involve subdivision. 23.3.1 Objectives and Policies Objective 1 That significant natural features be identified and protected through the process of land subdivision and/or land use development, recognising likely subsequent land use practices. Policy 1.1 Protection of significant natural features and ecosystems in the processes of subdivision and/ or land use developments, and permanent protection obtained through appropriate legal mechanisms. Policy 1.2 Provide for access to and along the margins of rivers, lakes and the coastline, where appropriate opportunities exist, during the subdivision and/ or development processes. Policy 1.3 Ensure that works associated with land subdivision processes avoid, remedy or mitigate adverse effects on the natural qualities of the environment, particularly natural ground levels, surface vegetation and water quality. Land along the margins of streams, lakes or the coastline may have significant natural values and serve as important habitats. There is strong emphasis given to the enhancement of these areas under Section 6 of the Act. Esplanade reserves, and to some extent esplanade strips and access strips, provide a statutory means of achieving such protection, and other similar legal mechanisms can be applied. The Plan provides for land to be taken for esplanade purposes upon subdivision, or as a contribution on development not requiring subdivision consent, on sections of waterways and coastal margins. It is important to ensure where possible, that the subdivision pattern does not artificially divide and create difficult management circumstances for areas of land containing important natural features, habitats or river and stream environments which often have a natural and irregular pattern. Accordingly, the subdivision of land and/or land use development should be undertaken in a way which specifically identifies, and where necessary excludes, such areas from parcels of land that are intended for more intensive land use. Conditions attached to subdivisions and/or land use development may therefore be imposed in situations where they can achieve the protection of significant natural features as part of these processes. The Plan recognises the importance of access to and from the coastline, rivers and lakes according to the value of these areas for public access, their ability to provide walkway and other linkages across various parts of the District, both urban and rural, and in reflection of their natural values. The extent of esplanade reserves and strips required is stipulated in the rules contained in Volume Two of the Plan. 23 - 3