THE VICTORIA PARK.

Auckland Star, Volume XXXVIII, Issue 7, 8 January 1907, Page 2

THE VICTORIA PARK.

(To the Editor.)

Sir, —Kindly permit mc to endorse your approval of the steps taken by the Mayor to attempt to redeem that great error of alienating parts of Victoria Park. The reclamation gave us new land in a literal sense, and the formation of it into a park was a hygienic necessity to that part of the city. Being at the heel of the semi-circle rimaned in by Hobsonstreet, Karangahape and Ponsonby roads, it is the natural recreation ground of the most densely populated part of the city, and the same part that gives the highest infant mortality. Its value, if it extended from Patteson-street to the shore would be very much greater than if a broad strip were built upon, as at preeent threatens. The whole public, in even passing along the street, would get the benefit of the tree-planted strip with its appearance and fresh clean air, whereas jf that unfortunate strip, threatened with sacrifice to very temporary expedient, were built upon, the eye and sense delighting park will be a perquisite of the backyards of the lessees. That strip would give a secure playground to children away from the central portion, with its cricket and athletics. I think that the whole of that portion from the Cus-toms-street gate to the Gasworks corner should be secured at once, as in fifty years or even less it will be either a noble heritage or a heartburn.—l am, etc..