OXFORD LEASES.

Press, Volume XLIX, Issue 14810, 30 October 1913, Page 5

OXFORD LEASES.

OPENING-UP PROGRAMME.

(■FXCIAI. TO "THE TEES-.")

WELLINGTON October 29. A deputation from the Oxford County Council interviewed the Minister ol Public Works to-day to urge the speedy construction of the Ashlev -jorge road. Mr G. W. Forbes, M.P., introduced the deputation, which comprised Messrs. H. Campbell (chairman), R. H. Gainsiord (clerk), J. O'Halloran and James McCormack. Tho Hon. D. Buddo and Mr G. Witty were also present. It was pointed out that the leases ot a large area of Crown land were tailing in shortly, and if the road was constructed the improved access would result in an increased rental, largely recouping tho Government lor its expenditure on the road.

The Minister said he had IrJly into tho question of access to tnese Crown lands, and had decided that the Ashley Gorge road would be the cr.e giving the most direct comminication at tho lowest cost. He mten lcel placing a substantial sum on this session's estimates to commence the wir*. Its estimated cost, £7000, was larger than had been anticipated, but he was fully resolved to complete the work within a reasonable time.