ROADS TO THE NORTH.

Auckland Star, Volume LXI, Issue 59, 11 March 1930, Page 9

ROADS TO THE NORTH.

BRIDGING THE GAPS. FAVOURABLE PROSPECTS. "ALL CLEAR" TO WHANGAREI IN" 1931. A few days ago, the Wliangarci Chamber of Commerce, associated with the Auckland Chamber, waited upon the Hon. E. A. Ransom, Minister of Public Works, and Mr. P. W. Furkert, chairman of the Highways Board, to urge the early completion of the unmetalled gaps in the main roads from Auckland to the north. Dr. E. P. Neale, secretary to the Auckland chamber, reported to its council at to-day's meeting that there was every likelihood of all-weather communication between Auckland and Wliangarei being established before the winter of 1981. The deputation pointed out the need for an early completion of the unmetalled gaps in the Dome Valley (between Warkworth and Wayby), and between Topuni and Kaiwaka, and also of the gaps in the Mangakahia Valley (on the central route, north of Wliangarei), and near Hukerenui, on the eastern route. They were assured by Mr. Furkert that efforts would be concentrated on the two first mentioned gaps. At present the commencement of further work between Topuni and Kaiwaka was held up pending survey, but as soon as this was completed a decision would be made regarding the route and the new road, and construction work would be commenced. Members of the deputation were satisfied that the Highways Board were doing ! all they could to meet the requirements of road transport to the north. . "The position appears to be satisfactory," remarked.Mr. M. Stewart, president of the Auckland chamber, in moving that the report be adopted.