WAITEMATA BRIDGE.

Auckland Star, Volume LX, Issue 142, 18 June 1929, Page 6

WAITEMATA BRIDGE.

At last the financing of the project to build a bridge across the harbour has been made quite clear by the president of the association, Mr. Greville. The association is determined not to permit the Government to build the bridge and thereby saddle the poor taxpayers with fresh burdens. "Metliinks the grapes aro sour." Strangely enough, Sir Joseph Ward is of the same determination. The scheme is that tolls • arc to be paid on the bridge instead of ferry fares, and, as no burden of responsibility is to be left with the taxpayers, there are three ways in which this bridge can be financed. Firstly, to follow the Ferry Company's example and form a public company. Secondly, to persuade some large engineering firm to build the bridge without payment or security and take the tolls to reimburse themselves over a period of years. Thirdly, and the one which seems to be most likely to fit in with the resources of the Bridge Association, to seek the aid of the Chattels Transfer Act and buikl the bridge under a hire-purchasc scheme —two-and-six down and the balance in monthly instalments. Which is it to be, Mr. Greville? However,' good luck to you, and let us get on with the job. MOTOEIST.

It is obvious that the chairman of directors of the Devonport Steam Ferry Company could not reasonably be expected to advocate any progressive scheme, such as the harbour bridge project, which might lessen the company's profits and end the existing monopoly of crossharbour transport. No advantage is gained by our opponents in quoting the decision of the 1921 commission, which was unfavourable to the construction of the bridge. Circumstances are now totally different. We have a progressive Government in power with Sir Joseph Ward as leader, whose slogan is "Progress," and the rapid development of the country. Obsolete methods of transport must go; vehicular ferry boats are as old-fashioned as Noah's Ark. I feel positive that the present Government realises that the bridge is a national concern and will bear the cost of construction. From an economic and town-plan-ning standpoint the Shoal Bay site is the only one Avorthy of consideration.

JOHN GUIXIVEN.