LOW TRAM FARES.

Star (Christchurch), Volume LXVI, Issue 20542, 18 February 1935, Page 8

LOW TRAM FARES.

Do Not Inevitably Mean More Revenue. PASSENGERS TO SEASIDE. “ This again indicates that very low tram fares do not inevitably mean more revenue, as many people think,” read a report presented to the Christchurch Tramway Board this afternoon discussing seaside excursions. The Works and Traffic Committee reported that the financial results of specially reduced fares, including the additional cost of transport, were disappointing. The fares were at the low rates initiated last year, which then showed a reduction in revenue. The weather was much better than last year, yet a further reduction in revenue was recorded. The Sumner line showed a decrease in passengers of 1169, and New Brighton showed a decrease in passengers of 7345. There was a gala at New Brighton last year but not this year. The North Beach trolley buses showed an increase in passengers of 3612. Taking the three seaside resorts together, revenue went back £IOB 18s Bd. The report was adopted. There were present: The Rev J. K. Archer (chairman), Mr E. J. Howard, M.P., Messrs C. E. Jones, G. T. Thurston, W. J. Walter, E. Parlane, G. Manning arid J. Mathison. The Works and Traffic Committee also reported that among matters mentioned by a deputation from the Richmond Burgesses’ Association, was an alteration in the stopping place of trolley buses at the Tweed Street section point. In future the buses on the out journey would stop nearer the Mission Hall. The more important question of Richmond buses going through to North Beach instead of Shirley ones, was being investigated. The committee reported that a deputation from the Linwood Burgesses’ Association had been heard respecting the track in Buckley’s Road. An examination showed that the condition of the track conforms with Government requirements. The sleepers and packing were in good condition, but the tarred surface had developed undulations. This was due to road traffic not tram traffic. The board was denied any share in the thousands of pounds contributed by motorists for better roads. When the City Council put its part of the road in better condition, the board would follow suit. An extension to 15 years of the lease of land in Falsgrave Street to the Gas Company at an increased rental of £IOO a year and rates was granted. It was decided to receive a deputation at the next meeting of the committee in regard to the Y loop at the Fendalton terminus.