GROWTH OR PALMERSTON.

Manawatu Times, Volume XII, Issue 1807, 4 May 1921, Page 4

GROWTH OR PALMERSTON.

The census figures disclose that the population of the borough of Palmerston North is now 15,(540. At tho census taken in 1910 the population was .12,821). The increase in the quinquennial period is, therefore, 2817. This may be regarded ns fairly satisfactory. When the figures of the Kairanga County are available, it will probably fye found that there is a population of 20,000 within a radius of a few lAilcs of tho Palmerstoh North Post Office. Unlike Wanganui, this town does not embrace contiguous suburbs. The borough has made steady growth within itself, and is slowly but surely attaining the commercial position which its situation deserves. There is scope for great expansion in the future, particularly in the direction of new industries. When the financial stringency has passed, and hydro-electric power is installed, progressive citizens should set to work to promote w'ooilen mills, soap and candle factories, and other industries which will employ labour and bring wealth to the community. In the meantime, wo have reason to feel proud ot the position wo occupy as the most important inland town in the Dominion. With enterprise and unanimity of purpose, we should very nearly double our population in the next decade. Tho neighbouring township of Feilding has shown an increase of over 1000 in its population during the last five years, and is to be congratulated upon tho steady progress it is making.