STANLEY BAY PARK.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXI, Issue 18760, 14 July 1924, Page 5

STANLEY BAY PARK.

Sir,-—Having seen tho proposal of tho Stanley Bay Improvements Association, as to tho above, there appears to mo to be a few points that require explaining. In tho first place, I understand tho old Stanley -I'Bay Hall Committee by their efforts in two years, collected about £700 for the building of a public hall. During this time a lot of remarks were passed and statements mado that a large amount would be collected from the residents toward a park. Might one ask what the present committee have collected for this purpose, or are the hall fund moneys the only asset they have? If Buch is the case, one can hardly congratu late the present association on their 12 months' efforts. Another matter is the suggestion to levy a rate on Stanley Bay ratepayers. One of tho reasons for this • is to improve the surroundings. This is very aptly put, but why not havo stated outright that tho schemo would improve the property of those owners surrounding or overlooking this area at tho ex-, penua of the ratepayers. I havo not seen any note of any large subscriptions from the property-owners, who would benefit in increased value of their properties when this park is formed. This park area is vested in the Devonport Borough Council, and I therefore submit that the cost of making the park should bo provided by them, and if necessary a rate struck fOr the whole of Dovonport, and that Stanley Bay ratepayers should not be asked to foot the bill. Doubtless, when the park is finished and a good playing area obtained it will be found that a large number of town and Devonport people will bo using the ground, and Stanley Bay people will not have tho monopoly. Stanley Bay Ratepayer.