OPEN DITCHES

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXI, 16 January 1928, Page 10

OPEN DITCHES

(To the Editor) Sir, —Councillor McConchie is to be complimented on bringing forward the question of covering open watercourses in the western portion of tho city. In recent years building in these parts lias progressed greatly, and it is time that steps were taken to remove such detriments to property value as open ditches. In most parts of the city other arrangements have been made for tho disposal of stormwater, which is indeed right, but" here town planning seems but a distant rumour of things that might he. It. should not be, necessary to have three open ditches in the space of 200 yards as there are in Vanguard and St. Vincent streets. The carrying capacity of these ditches is not increased by the fact that they are crossed by numerous sewer pipes, etc., on which dobris collects in flood tinie, nor by'the fact that it is many, many moons since any attempt was mrtde to clear them. It is certainly time that a, comprehensive scheme was formed jo remove such hindrances to progress from this growing district, and if necessary a loan should be raised to put tho matter in a satisfactory condition and remove a slate of affairs which is no credit to our city. I am, etc., FRANK GIBBONS. . Nelson, 16th January. .