Marlborough District Council has reached a significant milestone in environmental management with the recent approval by the Minister of Conservation of the regional coastal plan provisions of the Proposed Marlborough Environment Plan (PMEP).

The news was delivered during the first council meeting of the new triennium, marking a significant step forward in the region’s commitment to effective coastal management.

Marlborough’s Mayor Nadine Taylor said the provisions pave the way for substantial advancements in how the region manages its coastal environments. “It’s now good to have the certainty over future direction and management for resource users, iwi and community. I want to thank Council’s team who have been working tirelessly to get this plan across the line. I also want to acknowledge the number of appeals that were resolved through mediation. This is an example of the way Council should be working – in partnership with our communities.”

While a few provisions remain subject to appeal, the council's progress has been notable, including the recent withdrawal of some appeals and ongoing resolutions facilitated by Environment Court directions. The Proposed Marlborough Environment Plan (PMEP), which includes the regional coastal plan, is a comprehensive integration of previously established management plans into a single framework aimed at streamlining resource management across Marlborough, providing clearer guidance and certainty for residents, businesses, and stakeholders alike.

Newly elected Chair of Council’s Environment and Planning Committee, Barbara Faulls, emphasised the importance of this framework, stating, “The adoption of the PMEP reflects our commitment to sustainable development and responsible resource management. The Marlborough Sounds is the Jewel in the crown of our region, so it must be looked after responsibly by everyone who uses it. This consolidated plan not only environmentally safeguards our coastal areas but also provides inspiration and guidance for how we engage with our coastal resources.”

During the Council meeting, the Mayor noted that a report to the Council also recommended initiating the process to implement Variation 1: Marine Farming, the final major outstanding part of the Plan.

In July, the non-coastal PMEP provisions, previously approved by Council, became operative.

The regional coastal provisions, recently approved by the Minister, were publicly notified on Saturday, 13 December, and will come into effect on 22 December.

For the latest information on the Proposed Marlborough Environment Plan, please visit: marlborough.govt.nz/your-council/resource-management-policy-and-plans/proposed-marlborough-environment-plan

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