Plan For Trees And “Village Green”

Press, Volume CIX, Issue 32166, 9 December 1969, Page 19

Plan For Trees And “Village Green”

Members of the Christchurch Civic Trust were enthusiastic last evening about efforts to persuade the developer of an area of land at Springmead, Hornby, to incorporate wellestablished trees in a housing development.

Mr P. J. Beaven said that rather than destroy the trees, it was hoped that the developer would agree to house designs suggested. He produced a plan and told members this was the beginning of what eould become the first model village in New Zealand. The Resident’s Association and the Paparua County Council were interested in the pro-

posal to make a more interesting environment It was difficult to break the pattern of housing development in New Zealand and legislation existed for better environment, but it was never used, he said. “It is a marvellous idea, and we can only pray,” commented Mr C. C. Steel. Members commended the plan which, they said, would do much to improve the uniformity and lack of trees in much of the Hornby area. Mr Beaven talked of a village green and brick stables on the old estate being used as an old people’s home, creche and coffee bar.

“The project involves planning a community for the old and young—not just the young not just the young marrieds,” said the chairman, Mr J. Oakley. He expressed the hope the developer who had shown interest, would finally agree to the concept