IN GREAT DEMAND

Evening Post, Volume LXXXIX, Issue 44, 22 February 1915, Page 2

IN GREAT DEMAND

APPLICATIONS FOR HUTT PARK. The splendid reserve to the east of Petone known as the Hutt Park has, since it was abandoned by the Wellington Racing Club, been used mainly "for winter and summer sports, and occasionally for military purposes. Of late the park has come into special prominence by reason of the fact that two^ applications of an important nature have been made for portions of the reserve. One application is from the Hutt Valley Trotting Club, which is desirous of leasing tho park for trotting purposes, while the other waa made by the Wellington Education Board, which body requires a site for tho proposed Hutt Valley High School. With regard to tho latter, there is considerable difference of opinion in Petone aa to the suitability or otherwise of the park, though it is probable this site will be chosen by tho board. Should this bo the case, and providing suitable arrangements can be made, it is unlikely the committee will offer any opposition to the proposal. However, the board proposes inspecting the grounds at noon on Wednesday next, in company k with members of the committee, and nothing definite will be done till after then. With respect to the other application, representatives of the committee met the Hutt Valley Trotting Club members during the week end. It wa3 stated by Mr. R. W. Short, on behalf of the club, that it would probably cost £800 to prepare the park for .racing, and at least £250 to put the grandstand in order. There are a number of matters to be gone into by the two bodies, including the question of a, permanent or portable fence. No decision, however, was arrived at on Saturday.