GATES ON THE WHARVES

New Zealand Herald, Volume LIII, Issue 16178, 15 March 1916, Page 5

GATES ON THE WHARVES

EXTENSIONS TO BE MADE.

RIGHTS OF THE PUBLIC.

HARBOUR BOARD DISCUSSION.

The gates and fences "on the wharves are to be extended; the Harbour Board having yesterday authorised the work, and decided to call tenders. In moving in that direction at the board's meeting, the chairman, Mr. H. D. Heather, said the estimated cost of the extension was £4500. That sum was provided for in the estimates, and would come out of the loan account, so that there would be no interference with general expenditure. Ho quoted from letters received from shipowners and consignees, who) had been approached on tho subject, showing that thoy considered the fencing of the wharves a great protection and convenience, which should bo extended to the whole waterfront. Somo of the writers expressed the opinion that tho fencing off of the wharves not only gavo the board control of tho shipping, but also enabled the latter to be carried on under the best conditions. Mr, Heather also read a report from the harbourmaster, Captain H. H. Sargent, stating that the gates and fences on the Queen s and iving's Wharves had been of the greatest benefit in keeping the wharves clear, and in the avoidance of accidents, Mr. W. E. Hutchison, who seconded the motion, raised the point that the estimate of £4500 was made eight months ago, and would have to be increased. The engineer, Mr.- W. H. Hauler, said tho cost of tho extension would probably be greater than estimated. At the same time advices from English firms showed that ; though they were engaged in the making of munitions, they wore also able to deal with other orders. Mr. P. J. Nerheny said the board should should be very careful in this matter. They had heard the views of the people interested in shipping, but the general public had a claim for consideration as well. "If we are going to have iron gates from ono end of the waterfront to the other, and the public have to peep through the bars to get a breath of fresh air," ho remarked, "it is a bit too strong altogether. There is no need for the extension of the gates and fences at present, and if we are going to spend 30 or 40 per cent, more on them than the estimated cost there will be a protest." Mr. E. J. Carr expressed surprise at Mr. Nerhcny's remarks. The latter, he said, evidently %new nothing about the matter. The publiq were never shut out from the wharves except when it was necessary. Why should not the board's property be protected from the public? On Sundays and holidays the people had access' to the wharves as they had in the past. Mr. Nerheny: I could not get a friend down the wharf a month ago when there was not a punt alongside. I had to produce my Harbour Board ticket then to do it, Mr. Carr: That got you through. The public have as much access to the wharf as they ever had. Mr. Nerheny : They bare not. Mr. Carr: I know it is very necessary that the wharves should have these fences. No' man here would leave his own property unprotected, Mr. Entrican supported the motion. It was impossible for the board to control the wharves without the gates and fences. He did not think the public were prevented from going down the wharves, except when it was absolutely necessary. Tho board had even provided seats on the waterfront for tho public, Mr. Nerheny : Yes, and yon are going to put a gate in front of them. Mr. Entrican: No. Mr. Nerheny : That is the next move. The motion was carried, Mr. Nerheny dissenting.