FOOTPATHS NEAR CAMPS

Press, Volume LXXVII, Issue 23445, 27 September 1941, Page 3

FOOTPATHS NEAR CAMPS

—♦— ATTITUDE OF MAIN HIGHWAYS BOARD' The protection of men of the armed forces by the provision of sealed footpaths beside main highways from military camps, and particularly from Woodbourne Air Station to Springlands. Blenheim, was discussed by Mr M. H. Wynyard. motorists’ representative on the Main Highways Board, at the annual meeting of the South Island Motor Union yesterday, in reply to a question by Mr R. P. Furness (Marlborough). Men walking into Blenheim from Woodbourne Air Station, and trying to “hitch-hike,” because they could not all find room in the buses, were a danger to themselves and to motorists, said Mr Furness. The Air Board had rejected a proposal that a footpath should be provided. Application had also been made to the Main Highways Board. In reply. Mr Wynyard said the Main Highways Board was prepared to find £1 for £1 towards the cost of the footpath. But it could not find all the cost. Other authorities were concerned, and the Air Board represented the men. There were many similar cases throughout New Zealand in relation to military camps. Apparently the military authorities did not think such footpaths should be provided. Signs were put up and restrictions placed on traffic. An important point put forward was that the men who were walking on the road at night wanted to “hitch-hike.” They wanted to attract the attention of motorists, and walked in a position on the road where they were sure to be seen. Consequenly they Were unlikely to walk on the footpath even if one were provided.