STYX-SOCKBURN RAILWAY

Press, Volume XCIX, Issue 29263, 22 July 1960, Page 17

STYX-SOCKBURN RAILWAY

Minister Replies To Council

There was no immediate need for the construction of the main railway line between Sockbum and Styx, but it was proposed at present that industrial sites should be developed with rail access at the Sockburn and Styx ends of the line, the Minister of Railways (Mr Moohan) advised the City Council by letter. He was replying to the council s protest against the railway line crossing Memorial avenue near the entrance to Christchurch airport “However, the through link is being regularly reviewed in the light of development, and a recommendation will be made to the Government at the appropriate time,” the Minister said. "It is expected that in the future this route will form a vital link in an efficient South Island main trunk connected to the North Island main trunk system by the rail-road ferry.

“The protective centre line proclamation does not affect the continued use at any public road by any person or public body,” the Minister continued. "The position is that If a formed publie road crosses the route, the department is obliged to provide a grade separation if required. The provision of road diversions and the dosing of particular roads to minimise the cost of over-bridging is one for negotiation closer to the time of constructing the line.”