WAIKUKU BEACH EROSION

Press, Volume XCI, Issue 27566, 25 January 1955, Page 7

WAIKUKU BEACH EROSION

CATCHMENT BOARD CRITICISED

PUBLIC MEETING FORMS DEPUTATION

The work done by the North Canterbury Catchment Board to combat erosion at Waikuku Beach was criticised by most speakers at a public meeting held there on Saturday to discuss erosion, and particularly the damage done during the river fresh last month. Resentment was expressed at the “defeatist attitude’’ of the board’s staff.

It was resolved that the board be asked to receive a deputation at its meeting on Friday, and that the meeting “convey to the board its appreciation of the serious position at the beach and considers that it calls for immediate expenditure and protection.’’ The deputation will comprise Mr R. M. Macfarlane, M.P., chairman of the committee, who presided at the meeting: Mr W. G. V. Fernie, Mr C. S, Marshall, and .Mr C. A. Ragg.

A letter will be sent to the Minister of Works (Mr W. S. Goosman) emphasising the “serious position,” expressing dissatisfaction with the protective measures of the Catchment Board, and asking the Minister to inspect the beach when he is next in Christchurch The letter will request that adequate finance be made available, and that the Minister’s engineers be called in. A copy of the letter will be sent to the member of Parliament for Hurunui (Mr W. H. Gillespie). A letter will also be sent to the Minister of Marine (Mr J. K. McAlpine), dealing with the effect of sea erosion at Waikuku.

It was decided that the deputation to wait on the Catchment Board should request that the board give immediate protection and remove the present dangers in the river bed. A letter will be sent to the Rangiora County Council expressing appreciation of the council’s help in restoring the beach facilities and amenities after the big flood. About 200 persons attended the meeting. A collection amounting to £6 10s 9d v/as taken at the door to defray expenses and to cover the expenses of a further meeting to be held on Saturday, February 5.