GARDENS FOR GREEN ISLAND

Otago Daily Times, Issue 26958, 18 December 1948, Page 8

GARDENS FOR GREEN ISLAND

Sir,—l am writing to draw the attention of all ratepayers to the ridiculous decision of the council to establish botanic gardens in the heart of the business area of Green Island. There is little enough potential business area as it is. The cost of acquiring this property would affect the repairs to our footpaths we have been waiting for for years.

Botanic gardens are quite unnecessary in a borough adjoining a city. Gardens of the landscape variety are desirable, and if the plans and efforts of former councillors had been supported and not interfered with we -would have our gardens to-day. The natural place for such is above the Kaikorai Stream, between Dali street and Runciman street, where any landscape gardener could make a very attractive reserve as the ground is undulating. There is a roadline, Westland Street, a chain wide, already owned by the council, which will never be required as a street. Adjoining is an area, of small value, not being suitable for building purposes owing to lack of frontage to a formed street, which, I am sure, could be acquired at small cost. This garden would be much more pleasant to visit than one on a main traffic route. I have no interest in the bus. company. As one who has travelled and observed somewhat, I cannot recall any town planning scheme which parellels the idea adopted last week. I would ask the councillors to reconsider their decision and rescind the motion at the first opportunity.—l am, etc.. Be Sensible.