CORNWALL PARK.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LI, Issue 15518, 28 January 1914, Page 10

CORNWALL PARK.

UMPROVEMENTS DEFERRED.

LARGE BILL FOR RATES.

OVER -HALF THE REVENUE.

Amongst Auckland's many picnicking resorts there is none more popular than Cornwall, Park. This fine pleasure resort has been largely patronised during the present holidays, and as one result of its increasing use the trustees have enlarged the tea kiosk at the lodge, which is now practically double its previous size. Other improvements to the park have been contemplated, but they have been deferred. The trustees state that their means are restricted by the large amount which has to be paid in rates on the property. The last valuation of the property stands at £204,200, and on this rates are paid to the One-tree Hill Road Board to the extent of no lees than £769 15s 4d "a year. The sum of £106 7s per annum is also paid to the Manukau Water Trust as water rates, making a total of £876 2s 4d payable in local rates. The rent roll, exclusive of the amount received for the Campbell paddock (which is rated separately) is £1525 13s a year. About 60 per cent, of the revenue is thus paid to the local bodies in rates. One of the improvements to the park wnich. it has been desired to effect, is the laying down of the drive through the park in tarred macadam, but owing to the lack of sufficient revenue, after rates are provided for, the work ha&. been deferred. •. - ■ Owing to the park being administered by a private trust instead of by a local body, a* in the case of other public reserves, the property is liable for payment of rates. Representations were made to the Prime Minister some time ago, urging that the Rating Act- should be amended so as to provide for. the exemption of the park from the payment of rates. A reply was received about four months ago to the effect that the matter would receive favourable consideration, but no further word has been received regarding the matter,