CLARENCE RIVER BRIDGES

Press, Volume XCI, Issue 27683, 13 June 1955, Page 12

CLARENCE RIVER BRIDGES

LACK OF PROTECTION DISCUSSED CONCERN OF KAIKOURA COUNTY COUNCIL The lack of protection to the railway bridge over the Clarence river, which is at present used as a com: bined road and railway traffic bridge, was discussed at the monthly meeting of the Kaikoura County Council. “If we had another flood the northern approaches to the bridge could go clean out.” said Cr. A. Paton, “and then where would we be? It would not only affect us but the whole of Marlborough.” Provision had been made for protection to the road traffic bridge but none to the railway bridge, he said. Settlers in the area were perturbed about the danger to their properties. Councillors considered the responsibility for protection was that of the Railways Department. It was decided to send telegrams to the Member of Parliament for Marlborough (Mr T. P. Shand) and to the Minister of Railways (Mr J. K. McAlpine), bringing the position to their attention and asking that arrangements be made for a deputation to meet the minister on his visit to the Kaikoura County. The northern end of the road bridge over the Clarence was washed out by a flood in January, 1953, and the railway bridge has been used for both road and railway traffic since then. Work on spanning the 300 ft gap at the northern end of the road bridge is proceeding. The second of two piers required is under construc- . tion. Protection work on the northern bank is also being carried out.