VISIT OF THE MINISTER OF PUBLIC WORKS TO LAWRENCE.

Tuapeka Times, Volume XVIII, Issue 1119, 14 February 1885, Page 3

VISIT OF THE MINISTER OF PUBLIC WORKS TO LAWRENCE.

The Minister of Public Works, accompanied by some members of his staff, came to Lawrence by special train on Wedneßday evening. Next morning the party drove to the Beaumont for the purpose of j inspecting the bridge inoourae of erection there ; thence to Roxburgh to inspect the Roxburgh bridge and the damage done to the reservoir by foods. Mr Richardson expressed himself well pleased with the work done at both bridges ; .and the County Council will be pleised to -know that he was favorably impressed with the manner in which the roads are laid off and kept in repair. We understand that it is the intention of the Government to invite tenders for the completion of the Beaumont bridge at once ; and that the bridge at Roxburgh will be pushed on without delay. The party returned to Lawrence on Thursday- 'evening, and yesterday morning a deputation from the Borough Council, consisting of .Messrs Thompson (Mayor), M'Kinlay, Fraei,"and Johnston, waited on Mr Richardson to discuss the proposed extension of the Lawrence line to Roxburgh. The deputation poiuted out the many .advantages in favor of the route in question, with all; of which Mr Richardson agreed. He informed the deputation that if the Gnvern T ment were in a position to extend the line to Roxburgh the route via Lawrence would undoubtedly be chosen. Unfortunately, for some considerable time to^come, the Government would not 1 be in & position to consider any further riiilway extension. — Mr Richardson whs then shown the sludge channel, and Mr Sraaill's scheme for completing the same was explained. I The deputation showed that a further I sum of about £500 would be required to complete the channel, which. already, I had beep tfye means of saving Lawrence from floods, ana the, fqyther outlay was necessary in order to'giet rid 6fJ;he tailings,. Mr Richardson , expressed himself as favorable to the sum mentioned being granted, so that there is some chance 'of getting the drainage scheme completed at no distant date. The Ministerial party left by special train for Dunedin at 9.30 a.m. yesterday.