THE DOMAIN.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume IV, Issue 975, 21 June 1883, Page 2

THE DOMAIN.

To the Editor.

Sir, —The necessity for some very speedy alteration either of the laws governing or the constitution of our Domain Boards is just at present exemplified in the case of our own Domain. I was until very recently under the impression that the Domain was a reserve solely set apart for the benefit ani recreation of the people, and that no one had any power or possessed the means of using it for any other purpose than that for which it was granted to the people. But if anyone just now will take the trouble to pay a visit to the north-western portion of our Domain he will see what practically amounts to prohibiting the public using the ground for any purpose whatever, least of all recreation. The lessee of this part of the Domain has, in defiance of all patriotism and public spiritodneas, commenced ploughing up not only the ground but the public pathway through it, which was largely taken advantage of by residents of the Borough and district. Whoever he (the lessee) may be, his action shows him to be one of that class, who if they can see any waj of lining their pockets, never mind what inconvenience others will experience. I also heard that about two months ago he had threatened to stop the public footpath across this ground. We hear a gieat talk nowadays of nationalisation of the land, but I think that people will do well to look after those portions that are public property, to prevent their misaue by men only to increase their income by means however mean and distasteful they may be to others. And on behalf of those who, by their grant to us of the Domain, showed their true philanthopy and genuine patriotism, and those who are looking forward in a few years to possessing a handsome and public demesne, I wish to protest against this action which is now going on, and ask the residents of this district to unite in preventing their public grounds from being diverted from their legitimate use. In conclusion, I would like to ask when, and by whom, was this lease granted, which enables a speculator to do as he pleases with our Domain, and grants the liberty to others of residing on it. Hoping that the above remarks will draw attention to this subject, I am, etc., Pro Bono Publico.