“UNSUITABLE AND CRAMPED”

Southland Times, Issue 23693, 16 December 1938, Page 6

“UNSUITABLE AND CRAMPED”

TECHNICAL COLLEGE BUILDINGS PLEA FOR INCREASE IN ACCOMMODATION The need for increased accommodation, brought about by the ’ rapid growth of the college, was emphasized by Mr J. H. Reed, chairman of the Board of Managers, at the break-up ceremony of the Southland Technical College yesterday. He pointed out that the college was being carried on in cramped and unsuitable quarters causing difficulties to both pupils ana staff. “Naturally a very considerable part of my board’s work has been with buildings, grounds and equipment, Mr Reed said. “When we realize the continued and rapid growth of the college ever since its establishment, it is disappointing not to be able to report any building extensions for the year. Although we are aware of the heavy demands on the government funds available for new buildings and additions, we feel strongly that our institution has so long had to put up with unsuitable and cramped quarters that we have an absolutely sound claim to an immediate large extension. We believe that the Minister and department have a grasp of our problems and will push on at the earliest possible moment. Plans and estimates for a really extensive addition along Forth street are now being prepared by the Public Works Department and we trust that there will be no long delay now. I must, on my board’s behalf, pay a tribute to our member of Parliament, Mr Denham, for the assiduous manner in which he represents our interests with the authorities in Wellington. He has been most helpful in all ways.” PLAYING AREAS Discussing the grounds Mr Reed said he was pleased to be able to report in happier strain. By arrangement with the Departments of Education, Public Works and Labour, the rear sections facing Forth street had been levelled, and a large area has been laid down in basketball and tennis courts, while the frontage was being prepared for the new building, and paths were being put in more permanent shape. “Situated as the college necessarily is, within easy reach ■of trams and buses, and conveniently placed for evening school students, there can never be large playing areas of our own, and we are bound to make best possible use of what ground we have,” he added. “For more extensive games grounds the school has been for many years indebted to the City Council and to various tennis clubs. It is only right that public acknowledgment should be made of our appreciation of these facilities readily granted.” During the afternoon Mr W. M. C. Denham, M.P., also commented on the need for increased accommodation. “I notice that the staff and roll numbers are increasing,” he said, “but the buildings are not. I sincerely hope that it is not my fault. I have advice that the excavation work is to start shortly. I don’t know how far off a new building is, but I sincerely hope that we have a new Technical College before long,” he added.