TRAM SERVICES

Press, Volume LXXXII, Issue 24893, 5 June 1946, Page 10

TRAM SERVICES

LACK OF SEATING ACCOMMODATION

CHAIRMAN’S REPLY TO COMPLAINTS

“I think the people of Christchurch have been spoonfed as far as transport is concerned,” said Mr H. Kitson, chairman of the Christchurch Tramway Board, at a meeting of the board yesterday, when he said that many persons were still complaining that they could not get seats on buses and trams during the peak loading periods. “They do not realise that to run an extra bus at a peak period would mean the employment of a man for a whole day,” he said. “At present every man and every bus is on the road at peak periods.” Mr Kitson said that as soon as the board put a bus on a new route there were complaints from other districts that they had not received a similar service. People could have a bus on every road if they were prepared to pay for it. but the board’s job was to keen down the cost of its services. “I know that it is no excuse to say that transport conditions in other cities and towns are worse.” he said, “but if Christchurch people realised what others had to contend with they would probably realise that we are doing our best to cope with increased traffic.” Mr J. S. Barr supported Mr Kitson’s statement, and said that the increased mileage was proof that the board was trying to give a more efficient service. He was satisfied that the nubhc was m.ore concerned to get an efficient and frequent service than it was with the cost of the service.