HOSPITAL AT KAIAPOI

Press, Volume CII, Issue 30092, 28 March 1963, Page 7

HOSPITAL AT KAIAPOI

No Plans For Building Population statistics from Kaiapoi do not justify the early replacement of the town’s hospital, the North Canterbury Hospital Board was informed yesterday by its institutions committee. Although the report brought a sharp reaction from some members of the board, the recommendation was carried. The chairman of the committee (Professor A. J. Danks) said that the recent purchase of land for a hospital at Kaiapoi did not imply any intention of early budding. Mr H. O. Hills said a “very high official” of the Health Department had promised a new hospital some years ago. Many residents would be disappointed if nothing were to be done. Miss M. B. Howard, M.P., said that “a lot of people are disappointed in this life.” She did not remember any promise to build a new hospital at Kaiapoi. The country could not afford a hospital every 12 miles, and Kaiapoi could be served satisfactorily from Christchurch. Mr V. J. Corbett said that Christchurch had fewer maternity beds than was desirable, and the board “could be in the cart” at Kaiapoi if new industries brought an influx of young married people to the town. Mr L. A. Bennett said that, after hearing complaints from Kaiapoi of inadequate hospital services, he had supported a population survey of the district. But the survey had not substantiated the complaints, and the erection of a new hospital now would be most extravagant. The average number of ocupied beds last month at the existing hospital was 2.4. which did not indicate any great demand, he thought No vote was taken.

Passed In.—When it did not reach the reserve price of £2OOO, an Oamaru stone and brick house ait 19 Forth street, Richmond, was passed in at £l7OO yesterday. The property was offered on account of the estate of L. D. C. Museharnp, by Mr R. Simes. The Government valuation is £2245. The house has three bedrooms, . lounge, diningroom, bathroom, scullery, pantry, and a workshop. There is also a brick garage on the section of 31 perches.