A BIG UNDERTAKING.

Auckland Star, Volume LIX, Issue 69, 22 March 1928, Page 7

A BIG UNDERTAKING.

RIVER DITERSIbX gCHEMK

ESTIMATED COST £17,5001

PUKEKOHE, this day. During their tour of the Franklin county yesterday, the Minister of Public Works, the Hon. K. S. William*' Minister of Lands, the Hon. A. D. McLeod, had bronght under their notice the most important proposed work planned by the county for some time. It was the suggested scheme of diverting the Mangatawhiri stream, between a point north of the creamery on the Valley Road, and the bridge on the main PokenoPaeroa highway. The stream, doe chiefly to its pronounced winding course and obstructions in the bed of the creek, rises rapidly during a rainfall and not only floods the land through which it flows, but also completely blocks traffic to and from the East Coast. In winter time, particularly, serious flooding occurs, but only recently after an abnormally dry summer, the water course proved inadequate to cope with a fresh. The plan proposed by the county and which has been approved by the Public Works Department, provides for a ""»! and the estimated cost of a comprehensive scheme is £17,500. The Mercer riding representative, Mr. J. Dean, said the settlers interested, who would undoubtedly derive a benefit, if the proposed work was undertaken, were prepared to find their share of the cost. They contended, however, that as the main highway to the East Coast was affected and also that the Pokeno-Pae-roa railway, when constructed, would benefit, the Government should assist materially in providing relief. Mr. Dean suggested that a subsidy of £3 for £1 be given. He emphasised the seriousness of the position from the settlers' point of view, remarking that in one case a settler would be obliged to walk off his farm unless the constant flood-ing-of his property was prevented. Mr. Williams, in reply, said he realised the serious position both from the settlers viewpoint and that of keeping the main road open. In view of the big sum of money involved he would place the request before Cabinet.