HAMILTON GOLF LINKS.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LIII, Issue 16309, 16 August 1916, Page 9

HAMILTON GOLF LINKS.

PROPOSED EXCHANGE VETOED

[BY TELFJORATH. —OWN COHH.ESPOXDE.Vr.] HAMILTON. Tuesday. The Minister for Internal Affairs, the Hon. G. W. Russell, has intimated that he is unablo to approve the proposed exchange of property between the Domain Board and Mr. H. T. Gillies. An agreement was arrived at some time ago between the board and Mr. Gillies for the exchange of 25 acres town Kelt land in Palmers ton. Street for 25 acres, comprising St. Andrew's Golf Links, Te Rapa. The transaction generally was regarded as in every way favourable to the Domain Board, and to the borough, as a largo block could be utilised for building purposes which now is: devoted to grazing purposes only, returning but a small rental. The golf links are recognised as amongst the best in the Dominion, and under municipal management, it is believed, would attract many visitors annually. The. proposals were submitted ft the Minister for Internal Affairs for ratification. It now is intimated that, in view of the discrepancy of the valuation of the properties—golf links £5360, domain lands £5250—the Minister is unable to approve. The Mayor and chairman of the main Hoard consider the valuation of the domain property excessive, as it is letable for grazing purposes only, but evidently was valued as building sites. Both gentlemen consider the proposal an excellent one for tli.'i public, and p.int. out that the Minister's decision will block the progress of the town in the locality. It is probable that an effort* will he made to induce the Minister to review his decision.