AMALGAMATION IN WAIMAIRI

Press, Volume LXXXIX, Issue 26971, 21 February 1953, Page 6

AMALGAMATION IN WAIMAIRI

MOVE TO INCLUDE ALL URBAN AREAS

SPONSORS OF PETITIONS TO MEET Amalgamation of all urban areas of the Waimairi county with the city of Christchurch is the objective of sponsors of petitions already lodged with the Local Government Commission. They will meet in the first week in March to consider combined action on -the present applications and to discuss the preparation of petitions for the amalgamation of the residential areas of Fendalton and Middleton. The Mairehau Residents’ Association is calling the meeting. The secretary (Mr P. M. Kerr) said last evening that petitioners thought that amalgamation had “hung fire too long” and that the groups which had hitherto worked independently should combine to present their case at the commission’s next sitting. Thirteen or 14 petitions had already been prepared in the Waimairi county.

•“On principle the Mairehau Residents Association believes that all urban areas on the outskirts should be joined to the city by amalgamation, Mr Kerr said. “We think there is no place for semi-urban, semi-rural focal bodies around Christchurch. Fendalton is a salient of Waimairi protruding into the city and receiving the benefit of city amenities,” Mr Kerr continued. “We know that a proportion of Fendalton people is becoming keener on amalgamation. Naturally owners of large properties are opposed to the idea, but we calculate that properties with a Government valuation up to £2OOO and a market value up to £4OOO would be better off in the

‘Middleton and Fendalton are the ■ substantial residential areas of Waimairi which are still not seeking amalgamation,” Mr Kerr said. “To help those there who desire amalgamation. our association is willing to supply comparative information and assist with petitions.” The meeting of sponsors of petitions should do much to clarify claims and promised more effiective presentation, Mr Kerr concluded.