The threat of a lengthy and expensive court battle has trumped science at the Westland District Council.

It wanted to bring in an Alpine Fault "avoidance zone" in Franz Josef that would stop businesses from developing on the fault line that runs through the tourist town.

But with the looming threat of a court battle from the business community, the council backed down and voted to scrap the idea.

Councillor Gray Eatwell voted against the motion and said it's shocking to see the council ignored a letter from four scientists.

He said to ignore the science is "flabbergasting".