“MISUSE OF ST. ELMO COURTS"

Press, Volume XCII, Issue 27753, 2 September 1955, Page 9

“MISUSE OF ST. ELMO COURTS"

RATEPAYERS EXPRESS CONCERN Concern at the proposed establishment of Government offices in St. Elmo Courts, Worcester street, and the scattered nature of departmental offices throughout Christchurch, was expressed last night by the executive committee of Residents’ Affiliated, Christchurch. It adopted a resolution asking the Government to note the article from the Parliamentary reporter of ‘‘The Press,” printed on Monday, on the many buildings in Christchurch that housed offices of Government departments, and added that ’‘much of this accommodation, incidentally, is below the standards laid down under the Shops and Offices Act.” The Government was asked to take early action to develop the planned administration block for its departmental offices “which would enable all departments to be conveniently sited, thus increasing service to the public and effecting a reduction in overheads.” “We view with concern,” continued the resolution, “the further spread of their offices into St. Elmo Courts, a pleasant residential area and one of the attractions of Christchurch.

“The misuse of St. Elmo Courts is a striking example of the need for local authorities to be empowered to say what use should be made of city property in the public interest.” The Christchurch City Council was also recommended to acquire a site for its proposed civic centre as soon as possible, “with a view to its early development before costs and values rise further.” The committee also recommended the Christchurch Transport Board, in a second resolution, to introduce Saturday and school holiday family tickets such as are at present available to family groups travelling on Sundays.