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EDS appeals King Salmon decision
Media Release: EDS appeals King Salmon decision
The Environmental Defence Society will today file an appeal in the High Court in Blenheim against the Board of Inquiry decision to allow salmon farms in areas of the Marlborough Sounds that are protected for their conservation and recreational values under the Marlborough District Council’s Plan.
“We believe that the Board of Inquiry’s decision is inconsistent with the New Zealand Coastal Policy Statement. That statement requires adverse effects of activities on natural character and landscape to be avoided in areas of the coastal environment with outstanding natural character or landscape values,” said Mr Taylor.
“The Board found that the Papatua (Port Gore) site was outstanding but then failed to protect it. We consider that was an error of law.
“The Board of Inquiry also failed to consider alternative options for zoning sites outside of prohibited areas. We contend that was a second error of law in the decision.
“The Marlborough District Council put together its plan, through an extensive public process involving the entire community, that set aside approximately half of the Marlborough Sounds for marine farming and half for conservation and recreation. King Salmon, through a private plan change, seeks to override this clear strategy for the Sounds.
The EDS appeal relates to 2 of the 4 approved sites: Papatua (Port Gore) and Waitata. Robert Enright at DLA Phillips Fox is counsel for EDS.
“We hope this litigation will clarify matters of interpretation that will ensure areas of outstanding natural character and our outstanding natural landscapes are protected,” Mr Taylor concluded.
ENDS
Environmental Defence Society
EDS speaks for the environment. It has influence.
Since 1971, EDS has been driving environmental protection in Aotearoa New Zealand
through law and policy change. That's why it's one of this country's most influential non-
profit organisations when it comes to achieving better environmental outcomes.
EDS has expertise in key disciplines including law, planning, landscape and science. It
operates as a policy think-tank, a litigation advocate, and a collaborator – bringing together
the private and public sectors for constructive engagement.
EDS runs conferences and seminars on topical issues, including an annual Environmental
Summit and the Climate Change and Business Conference.
EDS is a registered charity and donations to it are tax-deductible.
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