THE MEMORIAL COLUMN.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 19978, 21 December 1926, Page 6

THE MEMORIAL COLUMN.

TO THE EDITOR. Sib,—Your timely interest in the matter of the pathway surrounding the Fallen Soldiers’ Monument is, I am. sure, much appreciated. Although the ridiculous sixloot pathway is now to be widened to 12 feet, it would be. much better if it were made the full width of the approaches, which are 20 feet, and, if anything, somewhat wider. This would improve the general effect of the plinth of the monument, which is all too meagre and is set too low. The extra width 'would also provide room for seating beside the grass border and give the necessary width for through traffic. The four elm trees must be removed. It is quite impossible to flood the monument at night with light if they are left there, and they spoil the general effect in daytime- These and other deciduous trees in the enclosure are six months without foliage; and, since the native shrubbery has been cut out, during that period of the year the reserve will present a very dreary and desolate aspect. There are really too many deciduous trees, exotics at that. A more artistic effect would be produced by cutting put thiee-quarters of these and substituting groups of evergreen shrubs—toe-toe, flax, and native palm. It is now quite impossible to find /a suitably sheltered spot in these gardens. Surely the city Reserves. Committee has a duty (o perform in this connection? Visitors, tourists, and residents in hotels and nearby localities must be considered. The seating accommodation is most inadequate and is a disgrace. There should be at least 30 seats, and there are only six, and these are most uncomfortable. 1 would suggest that a concrete setting overlaid with asphalt be laid flush with the grass whore each seat is placed—say, in area, nine feet by four—so that the wear which generally is noticed around seats may bo avoided and grass cutting operations thereby facilitated: also that half the seats be placed away from the shade of trees, for the benefit of those desiring the sun’s rays. A margin of concrete overlaid with asphalt. six feet wide and flush with the grass, should also be placed roufid the Macandrew Monument, and seats should be placed thereon. Seats should also bo placed in the garden enclosures on either dde of the Art Gallery. I think it is about time iha.t the city Reserves Committee realised that the small parks in various parts of the city are as essential for the well-being of the people as the Botanic Gardens; and that more thought and attention should devoted towards making these attractive and comfortable for visitors and local residents, and not merely as vistas in the landscape, for the pleasure of those who pass in motor cars and tramcars. There are many residents who would be -dad to see these improvements made forthwith, and would appreciate your kind endeavour to have them consummated.—l am, etc., Resident. Dunedin, December 19.