Clutha project land bought

Press, 16 August 1976, Page 10

Clutha project land bought

: PA Wellington i The Government has proclaimed ownership over 315 hectares of land in and adjacent to Cromwell for development as the residential and servicing headquarters for the Clutha Valley development project. The taking of the land; was promulgated in the Gazette on Thursday. The Minister of Works' and Development (Mr W. L. Young) said that some 110 houses would be needed in Cromwell to accommodate the Ministry and contractors’ staffs who will be engaged on the project. “The land proclaimed will be required regardless of i which development plan for J the area is finally adopted,” (said Mr Young. j “As well as houses, provision has to be made for I industrial areas, reserves, j community’ facilities and j commercial buildings. It is (necessary for the Govern-

ment to assume control of the land now to stabilise land values. "Some of the land comprises privately-owned sections within the borough, [some is owned by the Cromjwell Borough Council and 'some is rural land lying in Vincent County. , "Some residences are included within the proclaimed [area but occupants will not 'be dispossessed until suitable alternative arrange- ■ ments have been made for them. | "A few industrial facilities [are also affected, but the owners will not be required to move until an alternative industrial area has been developed within the expanded township. “In defining the area to be developed as the construction headquarters of the project, close liaison was maintained with the local authorities concerned.

“In making settlement for the land, the Government will pay fair and reasonable prices based upon the current market value,” said Mr I Young.