Metropolitan board of works discussed

Press, Volume CXI, Issue 32563, 24 March 1971, Page 22

Metropolitan board of works discussed

A motion by Mr J. F. Davidson that the Christchurch Drainage Board convene a meeting of all local authorities with a view to establishing a metropolitan board of works for Greater Christchurch was defeated at the drainage board meeting last evening.

Mr Davidson said that such a board would serve ratepayers much more efficiently and economically than the present fragmentation of boards and councils. He outlined the advantages of a board of works, referring particularly to that in Melbourne. “This board tonight has expressed its dissatisfaction about the Regional Planning Authority. It is no secret that the Labour Party considers that the present planning authority should be put out of existence. “Now, apparently, Citizens’ Association members are aware of this,” he said. "All the bickering, backbiting and squabbling over the siting of the Commonwealth Games pool would have been avoided if a metropolitan board of works had existed—and we would have been on with the job before now.”

Mr Davidson’s motion was seconded and supported by Mr R. H. Stillwell. Mr M. R. Carter said that Mr Davidson knew full well that the Local Government Commission would be sitting in Christchurch shortly and would be dealing with the very subject that Mr Davidson had raised. “I would suggest that Mr Davidson’s motion has been raised at this time because it is within six months of the local body elections. “I have the deepest sympathy with Mr Stillwell who is apparently not so much in favour with the party as some favoured ones are.” Mr Carter moved an amendment that Mr Davidson be invited by the board to make to the commissiorrpersonally

the views he held so firmly. The amendment was carried.