TOWN HALL PROJECT

Press, Volume C, Issue 29553, 30 June 1961, Page 13

TOWN HALL PROJECT

Council Discussses Question Of Site

In view of the result of the referendum in which Waimate borough ratepayers expressed a preference for a new town hall the Town Clerk (Mr D.' V. Firth) sought a directive on procedure from the council at its monthly meeting. Mr Firth pointed out the preference of the architect to be advised of site before preparing plans for a building. The council already had decided to call a public meeting to discuss plans for fund raising, and if the council fixed the site, they might get a big meeting, said Cr. T. G. Cochrane.

Cr. A. G. McHardy: They might get a new council too! The Deputy-Mayor (Cr. G. R. Watters) said he thought the council was unable to find a great variety of sites. He had made no secret about his suggestion to make use of portion of Seddon square, but was prepared to fall in with any other proposal. Cr. Cochrane: People would give north, south, east and west in sites. Town planning must be considered in siting, also the availability of parking space. Cr. Watters: Jaycees representatives discussed the position informally with me one day, and I’m sure that organisation with others would take part in fundraising. “Is any member of the council prepared to suggest a date for the meeting, and a site—or any suggestions to put before the meeting" Cr. Dash: Why not leave it to the publicity meeting to discuss the site, with the fund raising? Cr. Watters: The meeting may be rather fruitless in that case. Cr. Cochrane: If the council can’t be unanimous on the site, a public meeting is unlikely to be more successful. The Town Clerk; The reserves committee discussed the Goldsmith street site, opposite Seddon square. He added he could see no difficulties about securing a site on the railway property with a frontage to Queen street. Cr Cochrane: I know quite a number opposed Seddon square, but that is because they didn't realise the position in which the building would be situated on the square. Cr. A. G. McHardy felt a very satisfactory, town hall could be built on Goldsmith street. The Deputy-Mayor: I quite agree with you, Cr. McHardy. Cr. L. McElhinney also favoured the Goldsmith street site. Cr. Cochrane: I would prefer Seddon square to that other comer, although it could be improved. Cr. G. B. Richardson: Why not on this present site, incorporating our present borough chambers? There is room in the borough yard for extension. Cr. Watters: I do not think the architect would favour this position, considering the situation in relation to the clock tower. Cr. McElhinney: It might cost more than £40.000 The present buildings would be largely pulled down. On Cr. McHardy’s proposal decision was deferred until next meeting, councillors to consider the position in the interim and come prepared to vote on the question of site.