Following feedback from landowners and stakeholders, the draft maps of the Tasman District Outstanding Natural Landscapes and Features, and the revised Coastal Environment area, have been changed to reflect local knowledge.

The Landscapes and Coastal Environment Projects are about safeguarding our valued landscapes and coast from specific future activities that would impact what makes them so special.

Senior Principal Planner Stephanie Styles is working closely on both projects and she attended all 13 community feedback events across the District. “Our Autumn engagement period closed at the end of June and we received feedback online and over the phone from more than 300 landowners. Hundreds more dropped in to our face-to-face events to talk about their specific property issues. Where appropriate, we digitally changed the proposed boundaries in response to their knowledge of the land.

“Having an extended feedback period on the draft maps has been hugely valuable. The changes we’ve made as a result of what we’ve learned from locals shows the process is working well.

"At some of our rural meetings we heard concerns from some feeling under pressure from increasing regulation and we want to reassure people that these projects are not about stopping existing activities or removing ownership. We’re grateful to have heard a range of perspectives through this engagement and recognise the hard work and passion in our communities,” said Stephanie.

Further work with some landowners is required before we release revised maps later this year.

Find more information on the Landscapes and Coastal Environment Projects here.