Heating range wider

Press, 9 May 1979, Page 14

Heating range wider

The number of heating appliances approved as a replacement for open fires, in existing homes, ha.s been extended by the Paparua County Council. The council has decided that all types of “enclosed solid fuel-burning appliances” would be allowed as a replacement for open fires, in existing houses in the urban parts of the county — slightly amending the motion passed at the May meeting of the finance committee. The County Engineer (Mr J. D. Annan) told the council that the number of appliances allowed by the decision would be increased from seven to about 12. The seven previouslyallowed in the council’s clean-air provision cost between $lOOO and $4OOO. including installation, he said. The additional five or so, now permitted, would cost possibly less than $5OO.

Although not as efficient as the more expensive models, these had been designed by manufacturers to fit into existing fireplaces, which would cut installation costs, Mr Annan said.

However, some councillors felt that these provisions should be extended to new houses built in the county.

Cr O. Munro moved all types of solid fuel-burning appliances be allowed in the urban area. Tins would make house heating available to all people, not just a selected few, she said. The motion was lost by a narrow margin. Some councillors thought that the amendment would mean a reversal of the council’s clear-air policy. Rating policy P.’parua ratepayers may be able to be late with their rates instalments, without penalty once in five years. The finance committee of the council recommended that a ratepayer not have to pay' a penalty if he was late once in every five years — or 20 instalments. Previously the finance committee had considered each case of late payment on its merits. Cr A. Y. Shuker .said tha f once in every 20 payments was “a bit niggardly” and that the council should adopt the policy of the Central CanterburyElectric Power Board and waive the penalty payment if the rates were late once in every 12 instalments.

The recommendation was referred back to the finance committee for further consideration.