MORE HOPEFUL

Hauraki Plains Gazette, Volume 58, Issue 4106, 28 February 1949, Page 4

MORE HOPEFUL

KAIHERE ACCESS ♦ HIGH BRIDGE ESTIMATES 'WILL MAKE NO PROMISHB” Although there were no immediate prospects for improving the access to the Kaihere-Patetonga district, the proposals submitted in a petition from the settlers through the Paeroa Chamber of Commerce would be prosecuted as - soon as the supply position allowed and agreement had been reached with the county council as to the extent of its contribation, wrote Hon. R. Semple, Minister of Works, to the Paerea Chamber of Commerce. “ The need for improved access across the Hauraki Plains is admitted,” the Minister wrote, “ and it is also agreed that the provision of bridges across the Piako river and the Awaiti canal would assist in this direction considerably. The first mentioned bridge would, in all probability, cost in the vicinity of £35,000 and the latter approximately £14,000. “ The Lands Department is, I understand, proposing to release and settle a number of sections along the Reservoir canal road. It also intends to complete jbhe metalling of this road which is a link in the route suggested J by you. No Materials er Laboer “ You are no doubt aware of the difficulties being experienced by my department in obtaining materials and labour for the renewal and construction of bridges and the urgent necessity for replacing those at Pipiroa, Ngatea and elsewhere, preclude any serious thought being given to one at the Kaihere Ferry at the present time. “Consideration is, however, being given to a bridge over the Awaiti canal so that when conditions permit

its construction may be proceeded with. This bridge, used in conjunction with the ferry will mean & big saving in distance but at this stage I will make no promise as to when the work may proceed. * When this crossing is completed the Wanis road will probably be used to take the traffic to Paeroa via Pukahu road. The use of Netherton school road is not favoured owing to the extremely difficult junction which would have to be constructed at the school corner where deep drains on all roads have to be contended with.” When the letter had been read, the president, Mr E. W. Lee, said: “I think there is a little, ray of sunshine, but as per usual we have got this little Public Works Department estimate, which appears to me to be on the high side, to contend with.” Mr A. S. Sutherland, M.P. for Hauraki, wrotegiving his support of the matter in question.