MENACE BY WILLOWS.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 50, Issue 151, 8 April 1930, Page 5

MENACE BY WILLOWS.

POSITION AT TRAFFIC BRIDGE. INSPECTION BY COUNTY COUNCIL An inspection of the Southern approach to the Ashburton traffic bridge ancl consideration of the menace of willow trees in the bed of the river were undertaken hv the County Council this morning. There were present: Messrs J. Carr (County Chairman), W. T. Li 11. R. Houston, J. Lambie, A. Horsev, H. E. Jessep, H. Crothers, H. C.* B. Withell, and W. G. Gallagher. The members assembled at the bridge, and by following the banks were able to see exactly the danger existing from large clusters of willow trees and broom which were springled over the bed. Members pursued their course up to the top of the golf links. At this point, Mr Lill drew attention to a cluster of trees which diverted the river from the centre of the bed to the right-hand side and thence back to the middle again. If this were, removed, the stream world go straight down. As it was the stream had to pass through a bottle-neck owing to the trees. The clerk (Mr G. Kelly) read the letter received from Mr Langbein, and which was received by the Council at it.-, last meeting. It was stated it was desirable to have the willows cleaned for about 30 chains above and below the bridge, giving a clear channel at least 1200 feet wide. The estimated cost of clearing the willows would be £BOO. Other proposals were put forward' at an estimated cost of £IBOO. It was decided that the recommendations be adopted, subject to the approval of Mr Wood (Inspecting Engineer to the Maim Highways Board) who would also inspect the position. Returning via the golf links, it was recommended that- a portion of. the hank at the No. 5 tee might he repaired, the Golf Club to pay half the cost. Arrived at the approach to the bridge. Mr Gallagher suggested that the approach he temporarily repaired to provide a footpath. It was decided to do this, the question of permanent repairs being deferred until receipt of Mr Wood’s report. . Members then paid a visit to Digbv’s bridge to inspect the prevailing conditions.