Council News In Brief

Press, Volume CIX, Issue 31992, 20 May 1969, Page 16

Council News In Brief

The Mayor (Mr A. R. Guthrey) and Crs H. P. Smith, G. D. Hattaway, E. B. E. Taylor, H. C. Blazey, N. G. Pickering and R. M. Macfarlane were appointed by the Christchurch City Council last evening as a sub-committee to report on the evidence the council should give on amalgamation to the Local Government Commission.

Gifts to Gallery.—Two paintings by John N. Knight have been given to the Robert McDougall Art Gallery by Mr F. A. Shurrock, and Mr W. S. Wauchop has presented a watercolour by A. F. Nicol! painted in Cairo during the First World War.

Godley Plot.—Replacement of the grassed area of the Godley plot in Cathedral Square by paving slabs was approved by the council, providing the upper area surrounding the statue remains grassed. Sigh of the Bellbird.—A new fireproof roof for the Sign of the Bellbird was approved at an estimated cost of $3200. The building lost its roof in a fire about two years ago. An approach will be made to the Summit Road Scenic Society and similar organisations for financial assistance and to help with supervision of the building. Tea Kiosk.—lmprovements to the facilities at the Botanic Gardens tea kiosk estimated to cost $15,000 were shown to the council on a plan. The parks and recreation committee said the most urgent work was to improve facilities for the staff and public at a cost of about $6OOO. The council agreed that this first stage should be met from reserve contributions in the sale of land account. A sub-commit-tee was appointed to discuss with the lessee the ultimate plan, which includes an independent shop and additional tearooms.