CIVIC BUILDING SCHEME

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXV, Issue 23132, 2 September 1938, Page 8

CIVIC BUILDING SCHEME

A new turn was given last night to the long-debated question of an administrative block for the accommodation of the City Council staff, and to contain a council chamber and offices for the Mayor and Mayoress. The plans submitted by the city engineer differ materially from anything which has previously been advanced. Involving as they do the closing, in part, of so old a thoroughfare as Grey's Avenue, and the acquisition of a certain amount of property .now privately held, they raise a whole crop of new considerations. A special feature of the lay-out is the provision of an open space so that citizens may assemble on great occasions. In its present tentative form the scheme does not invite dogmatic conclusions. There is no doubt about the need for more accommodation for those doing the business of the city. That available at present is neither sufficient in size nor convenient in form. Its inadequacies are felt by both the staff and by the public. The proposed lay-out appears to overcome many of those difficulties. In size it should be sufficient to allow ample room and to permit of designs giving the greatest possible amount of convenience and efficiency. The sketch plan promises well for the appearance of the new building should it become a reality. On the other hand, the estimated cost, £160,000, is a considerable figure. The effect such an expenditure would have on city revenue, and in particular the prospect of any substantial call on the ratepavers need to be estimated caiefully. The present burden of the rates is too heavy to be increased in any way that is avoidable. Fortunately there is no need for haste with the proposal. It is possible to review everything connected with it most carefully, and the council should do no less befoie coming to a decision.