SHEEP IN HAGLEY PARK

Press, Volume LXXIX, Issue 24028, 17 August 1943, Page 6

SHEEP IN HAGLEY PARK

GRAZING LEASES MAY BE ENDED A larger income made possible by the increased levies on rates recently given Parliamentary sanction is expected by some members of the Christchurch Domains Board to remove any justification for leasing grazing rights in Hagley Park. Next month the beard will discuss the following motion, of which Captain T. H. McCombs gave notice at a meeting yesterday:—“ That the board informs the present lessees that in view of the increased income of the board the leases for grazing will not be renewed.” Captain McCombs had sponsored m the House the bill permitting the board to increase levies on the rates of contributory local bodies. Reporting yesterday on the bill’s passage through the House of Representatives, Captain McCombs said that criticism from members mainly concerned the lease of Hagley Park for grazing. The same point had been raised by the Hon. J. K. Archer, M.L.C., when the bill came before the Upper House, said the chairman (Mr M. E. Lyons). Mr Archer had in fact telegraphed to ask for an assurance that grazing would be discontinued if the bill were passed and the board’s revenue increased. Mr Lyons said he had drafted a reply which stated that the board would agree to terminate the grazing leases, as the new rate levies would improve the board’s revenue by £2500. However, when this had been referred at short notice to members of the finance committee there had been considerable disagreement, and he had felt it more advisable to arrange a full discussion of the matter at a board meeting. Riccarton’s attitude was restated by Mr O. D. Fraser. He discussed the board’s improved finances. “Riccarton,” he said, “will apply for a commission. The incidence of the levy is so unfair.” Riccarton maintained no parks or gardens, said Captain McCombs. Riccarton’s contribution to parks or playing fields amounted in the year to no more than £5 for part of Deans Bush, while Riccarton’s contribution to the Domains Board was £202. This was the full extent of Riccarton’s contribution to parks and fields, while other Christchurch local bodies not only contributed to the board’s finances but also maintained their own excellent play and recreation areas. Mr Lyons: The board will not in any circumstances oppose the setting up of a commission. Riccarton chooses to complain, and a commission will undoubtedly prove the best means of settling the matter. Captain McCombs: At the last commission the magistrate undoubtedly was influenced by the facts about Riccarton’s contribution to parks and fields generally. Mr Lyons: Well, the commission will decide. The board carried a motion thanking Captain McCombs and Mr Archer for sponsoring the bill in the House of Representatives and the Legislative Council respectively.