There is hereby established a Comprehensive Zoning Plan for the Township, which plan is set forth in the text and map that constitutes this chapter. Said plan is adopted in the interest of protecting and promoting the public health, safety, morals and general welfare, and shall be deemed to include the following related and specific community development objectives, among others as may be stated in the Antrim Township Comprehensive Plan:

   A.   To guide and regulate the orderly growth, development and redevelopment of the Township, in accordance with a Comprehensive Plan of long-term objectives, principles and standing deemed beneficial to the interest and welfare of the people.

   B.   To protect the establishment, character, and the social and economical well-being of both private and public property.

   C.   To promote, in the public interest, the utilization of land for the purposes for which it is most appropriate, and to provide maximum protection of residential areas.

   D.   To encourage economic development in appropriate areas.

   E.   To encourage agricultural operations in appropriate areas.

   F.   To secure safety from floods, water pollution, and other dangers, and to provide adequate light, air, and convenience of access.

   G.   To encourage and facilitate the provision of adequate and efficient public facilities, service, and utilities.

   H.   To lessen and, where possible, to prevent traffic congestion on public streets and highways so as to promote efficient and safe circulation of vehicles and pedestrians.

   I.   To encourage historic preservation.

   J.   To conserve the value of buildings and to enhance the value of land throughout the Township.

   K.   To preserve rural qualities of open lands.

   In their interpretation and application, the provisions of this chapter shall be held to be the minimum requirements adopted for the promotion of the public health, safety, comfort, convenience, and general welfare. Except where specifically provided to the contrary, it is not intended by this chapter to repeal, abrogate, annul or in any way to impair or interfere with any rules, regulations or permits previously adopted or issued or which shall be adopted or issued pursuant to law relating to the use of buildings, structures, shelter or premises; nor is it intended by this chapter, to interfere with or abrogate or annul any easements, covenants or other agreements between parties; provided, however, that where this chapter imposes a greater restriction upon the use of a building or premises, or requires larger restrictions upon the use of a building or premises, or requires larger spaces than that imposed or required by any other statute, ordinance, rule, regulation or permit, or by any easement or agreement, the provisions of this chapter shall control.