A MOTOR CAMP AT BRIGHTON

Otago Daily Times, Issue 25797, 19 March 1945, Page 2

A MOTOR CAMP AT BRIGHTON

Sir—lt is with regret we learn that the proposal to Institute a motor camp at Brighton, a valuable asset to all motorists, has been rejected by the Otago Automobile Association. There is no doubt that Brighton offers an ideal situation for a motor camp, as it is the most widely-visited seaside resort near Dunedin. It is a favourite place for Central Otago motorists, having one of the safest bathing beaches in New Zealand, especially for children. The criticism of this project by Mr Breen appeared to be very biased, and it certainly was not constructive, as no sound alternative scheme was suggested. I understand that the assets of the Automobile Association of Otago amount to £15,000. As this sum has been collected from motorists for their own benefit, why should it be hoarded up? If no extra facilities are to be offered to the motorists, then it is high time that subscriptions were reduced.—l am, etc., All Out For The Motorist. Dunedin, March 1.

Sir,—For their efforts to secure for the motoring public a camping place at Brighton, Mr Anderson and other members of the committee deserve the warmest thanks. For years motorists have beer; agitating for a camp there. At the present time, while petrol is in short supply, one is lucky to be able to run out once a month. On a fine week-end many of these visitors would go out on Saturday and, by being able to stay the night, enjoy an extra day’s pleasure. Local motorists could leave their families camped there, and use the bus service back and forth during the week, spending the week-ends with their children in pleasurable scenery and a healthful atmosphere. The fact that the proposed motor camp is near the city is an advantage, not a disadvantage, these days. Visualising the day when petrol will again flow into thirsty tanks, I can see large numbers of Central Otago motorists., who naturally gravitate towards the coast at holiday time, finding a camp at Brighton a Godsend. As a motorist, and frequent visitor to Brighton, I am familiar with the proposed site. One of the main objections to the camp was lack of water. Surely the fact that there will be ample water from a spring on the grounds is known to the executive which considered the matter. As for the other bugbear, wind, that is too trivial for consideration. Mr Breen said that Brighton was not popular. I beg to differ. Previous to petrol restrictions being Imposed, I visited that place nearly every Sunday, and on many occasions could hardly secure parking room.

Now for the financial aspect. I am certain the camp would pay. Mr Anderson and committee are to be commended for the reasonable estimate brought forward. It is too early yet to talk of camps running into thousands of pounds. Leave that till our returning men are all housed in pleasant living conditions. The amount estimated to establish the camp, even if it is In only a small way at present, can easily be spared from the accumulating funds of the Otago Automobile Association.

Sir, numbers of the motoring public want that camp. Why should it be arbitrarily set aside by a few dlder members of the association? Let us be a little more far-seeing. Much has grown from many projects begun in a small way. I suggest that a general meeting of the Automobile Association be called so that the opinions of the members may be made known. Among the members there are many keen campers with children, and they should be allowed to express their wishes. As for Queenstown, I fail to see a camp there being of much benefit for some time to come. How are we to get there? Let Queenstown and county attend to their amenities, but we want the Brighton camp now.—l am, etc., Wake Up, Campers. Dunedin, March 16.