Coromandel Hotels May Be Reduced-Commission’s Inquiry

Grey River Argus, 25 August 1949, Page 2

Coromandel Hotels May Be ReducedCommission’s Inquiry

P.A. THAMES, August 24. _ Resuming its sitting here this morning, the Licensing Control Commission dealt with submissions regarding four hotels at Coromandel. E. Deeble, chairman of the Coromandel County Council, stated that the present population of Coromandel township is about 700, and it is the business centre for the whole western side of the peninsula, the permanent residents of which number about 5000. In the vicinity of the township, he said, there was a large land development scheme for ex-servicemen, and tens of thousands of acres suitable for re-afforestation. It was also a popular tourist resort. Agreeing that there was need for licensed hotels in other localities, the Chamber of Commence decided not to press for the retention of the four licences, but would ask for the retention of two. It also asked that the remaining hotels be brought up to a modern standard. Evidence was submitted supporting the provision of an additional licence for Whitianga by C. H. M. Simpson, on behalf of the Mercury Bay Chamber of Commerce. He said the normal population of the township was 500, but during Christmas and New Year holidays this increased to 1000, and another I.censed hotel would ease congestion during this period. Submissions were also made supporting a licensed hotel at Pateionga, Hauraki Plains, mainly on its geographical position. E. Edwards, Mayor of Paeroa, supported a submission that a wholesale licence be given the Simon Proprietary of Paeroa. Before closing the sitting, the chairman thanked all who had tendered evidence, and complimented th ff Coromandel delegation for its liberal attitude.