ZONING

Press, Volume XCII, Issue 27734, 11 August 1955, Page 3

ZONING

Sir, —Reading of the Manufacturers’ Association’s decision to object to the 4 zoning of Linwood-Phillipstown to residential prompts me to suggest that this association is in the position to sponsor a poll whereby citizens could support of reject the present practice of granting permits for the erection and the use of houses for factories among the homes of the people, while there is a shortage of houses. The poll should cover all Christchurch. The problem of commercial expansion and housing is not only economic and social but a moral problem. Should we condone dismantling of homes at rents proportionate to income? Disregarding unpleasant truths will bring retribution sooner than some of our city councillors realise. If the manufacturers had invested on the Stock Exchange instead of house properties, could they claim compensation if shares dropped? One does not read of residents claiming compensation for the loss of the peace in their homes caused by industry.—Yours, etc.,

R. WOODHOUSE. August 6, 1955.

[“Manufacturers fully appreciate the problem of commercial expansion, but feel that the sponsoring of a poll as suggested by the writer would not be the answer,” said the secretary of the Canterbury Manufacturers’ Association (Mr R. T. Alston) when this letter was referred to him. “Miss Nancy Northcroft, the Metropolitan Town Planning Officer, is working on an over-all scheme now for the development of the city which will zone suitable areas for housing, industrial, and commercial use. At-that stage everyone will have an opportunity of assisting in such development ”!