THE WHAU BRIDGE.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXVII, Issue 20678, 25 September 1930, Page 10

THE WHAU BRIDGE.

As tho result of further discussion yesterday, the local bodies concerned have finally agreed to an allocation of the cost of a new bridge over the Whau Creek. A design was approved, subject to a slight modification, which, it may bo presumed, will not be insisted upon if it causes any difficulty. Thus, one of the most serious obstacles in the way of proceeding with the work has been removed, and there should not be further delay in replacing the present bridge, which has been declared, and, indeed, been proved, a danger to traffic. It is now nearly ten years since the inadequacy of. the old bridge was acknowledged. Highway improvements since then, coupled with the rapid increase of motor traffic, have multiplied the pressure on it many times. It is unfortunate that time should have been allowed to pass in this way without action being taken. There have been many disputes about the whole business, and it cannot be said that in the immediate past much spirit of co-operation has been shown in forwarding what everyone had to admit was a necessary, indeed, an urgent, work. There is no need, however, to dwell on that now, or to attempt any distribution of responsibility for what has happened. It is better to consider with satisfaction the feet that the local bodies have reached an agreement, and to acknowledge the readiness with which the last adjustments were made. There is' a prospect now of an essential link in a main northern outlet from Auckland being brought up to a standard in keeping with the concrete road in which the old bridge has been a serious gap. The travelling public will look forward to the day when the completed work will make traffic over this route not only easier but safer.