A major step in the review of the Regional Coastal Plan for Southland is available for public feedback from today.

A strategic direction document was considered by councillors at a meeting last week and now further input is wanted to ensure it provides the right foundation for the Coastal Plan review. The strategic direction is non-regulatory and non-binding, however it is an important step as it provides information and transparency about how Council intends to manage significant issues in the Coastal Marine Area in the future.

Team leader Alex Morgan said the document has been prepared using information from four discussion papers on marine aquaculture, natural hazards, ecosystem health, and use and development within the Coastal Marine Area. Discussions and workshops have also been held with key stakeholders, including Te Ao Marama Inc. who are partnering with Environment Southland to develop the plan.

“Once finalised, this document will highlight a way forward for significant issues for the review. We want to hear from people if they have any thoughts on it. The coastal area is a very significant part of Southland and plays an important role in the lives of many people.”

Have your say on the strategic direction until Friday 21 December either by providing comment online at www.haveyoursay.es.govt.nz, via email to service@es.govt.nz or in writing to Private Bag 90116, Invercargill 9840.

Once feedback has been received, the strategic direction document will be revised if required and given to Council for final approval early next year. The next stage will be to work with key stakeholders and partners to develop an initial draft of the Coastal Plan, which the public will then have an opportunity to submit on.

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