Travis Swamp

Press, 30 December 1988, Page 16

Travis Swamp

Sir, —Councillors Shackel, Blogg and Hanafin oppose the North Canterbury Catchment Board’s recommendation that 30 hectares be set aside as wetland if the swamp is developed. Their opposition is that it would threaten the commercial viability of the development, and would be too costly to maintain. Given the uncertainty the Drainage Board has expressed about the effects on local flooding by filling in the swamp, and given the predicted rise in sea level with the increase in the greenhouse effect, one would expect local councillors to be very wary of supporting any scheme to fill in this natural water basin. — Yours, etc., MOIRA TILLING. December 23, 1988.

Sir, —Waimairi District councillors should remember that, within a year, Waimairi District becomes one with Greater Christchurch. Decisions which have far-reaching results over a very long term are being made without reference to the Christchurch City Council. City ratepayers stand to be affected in greater numbers than those of Waimairi District in any case when it comes to development of

the Travis Swamp. We have pointed out that it could cost less to preserve the swamp in its natural state than to drain it. We support the Department of Conservation in its move to preserve the swamp for future generations. As an educational wildlife reserve it could be a moneyspinner in its own right, an asset to the city as a whole. We have already offered to set up a management committee, backed by four major organisations and many volunteers. Well done, Councillor Adcock, for calling a spade a spade. — Yours, etc., ANNE FLANAGAN, North New Brighton Community Council December 23, 1988.