HOUSING PROBLEMS

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 90, Issue 117, 22 May 1946, Page 3

HOUSING PROBLEMS

INQUIRY FOR CITY LAND

“Probably no greater problem of its kind ever faced ttys city than that related to the provision of adequate housing for the citizens,” stated the town clerk (Mr. White) in his annual report. “It is by no means a new one, as many who were affected by these same circumstances following the close of World War I can testify. “It is, however, a matter of deep and anxious concern that every endeavour should continue to be made to accelerate, if possible, the rate of house building. To quote figures here would be superfluous, as the citizens are possessed of this position in detail, public statements having been made by the Mayor and other authoritative persons even recently. It is but natural that a public body such as the council should make representations continually to the appropriate authorities of the dire needs of the people in this respect. “Other local bodies throughout the country, where the position is not less acute and even in some instances more desperate, are also urging the claims of their communities. This aspect, and the further matter of a shortage of materials and labour, have not been helpful to the plight of those in need of dwellings. “It is a hopeful sign, as distinct from the good work accomplished by the State Housing Department,... that many enquiries are now being made in the office regarding vacant lands. Does this portend, as suggested by the building returns for the past year, that a number of citizens purpose erecting their own dwellings, with flnace arranged privately? “If so, it is a most encouraging position, as the great and pressing need is more and still more houses, and the combined forces of the State and private enterprise must ultimately alleviate a lot of hardship and distress. The action of the council alone through the years in granting title to the Crown of municipally-owned lands for housing purposes was been and will be an important factor in providing modern homes for the people.”