THE BOROUGH COUNCIL AND THE BATHS.

Bush Advocate, Volume XXI, Issue 304, 28 June 1909, Page 5

THE BOROUGH COUNCIL AND THE BATHS.

(To the Editor.) Sir, — The change ;of froifc <6f ; the Council on the above question is out ! of all understanding. The majority Mere elected on the distinct understanding that they were opposed to the purchase of the section in Allardice street, or in fact any section, and that the baths should be in the recreation reserve. Why this change? What influence or pressure, financial or otherwise, is at work? Or is it crass stupidity | and want of foresight and judgment ] on the part of the whole Council, turncoats included? If the baths are wanted to • pay their way the site proposed is about the worst calculated for that purpose. : Baths should be ;in as retired, a situation as possible, so long as within reasonable distance, and as the majority of the swimmers and users Avould be the younger members of the ■conimunity, a moderate walk of 'even a. mile or so would be an absolute benefit. Baths in the centres of population; except in great cities, are not successes, and therefore not payable, besides which they depreciate property in their immediate neighborhood — the foreging applies even to Turkish and hot baths. In all bathing privacy is a desideratum, and with swimming baths this, with the desirable adjuncts of fresh air and pleasant healthful surnnindings, can be only obtained away from the centre of the town. The section proposed to be purchased is not a suitable one,\ besides which there are several properties in its immediate vicinity that can be had for much less money, and would certainly be preferable. I was led to believe that the Mayor favored the purchase, but I find that lie stated distinctly that he was not in favor of buying any section or site, but voted, pro forma, so as to bring the question before the electors. If the councillors have such faith ,in baths in Allardice street let them form a. syndicate and put their own money into it, and when it pays well, sell out at a good price to the Borough. Their present attitude would then be justified morally and financially. — I am, etc., .■RATEPAYER.