ERECTION OF FENCE AT DOMAIN

Chronicle (Levin), 11 April 1946, Page 2

ERECTION OF FENCE AT DOMAIN

BOROUGH COUNCIL DIVIDED At last night's Otaki Borough Council meeting it was reported that the matter as to whether or not a fence should be erected( opposite the grandstand at the domain had been left to the domain committee, consisting of the Mayor (Mr. C. F. Atmore) and Crs. Bartosh and Cook. It was pointed out that the two former were not in favour oi erecting a fence, but that Cr. Cook desired it so that spectators could be kept back from the football area. He considered such a barrier necessary, but the Mayor considered the ground too narrow for the erection of a post and rail fence. Cr. Cook stated ,that footballers would appreciate the fence, as they considered it necessary to prevent spectators encroaching on the field of play. The crowd could not be kept back unless a fence was erected. If it was not done he predicted there would be trouble in regard to spectators. He also pointed out that in some places referees had refused to act unless there was protection. The Mayor stated that the majority of the committee was against the erection of a fence, and he therefore considered that in the meantime nothing could be done. Cr. Cook suggested that representatives of sports bodies be asked to express their view on the matter. Cr. Young advocated the erection of the fence, looking upon it as necessary. . Even if the post and rail fence was not erected, he thought that a stout rope would be alright. This view was supported by Cr. Bennett. . . It was suggested that a fence be placed round the grandstand, which would be a protection and enable a charge to be made to gain admittance to the stand. Such a fence. it was considered by some, would be alright, but what was wanted was one* to cover practically the :whole length of the ground. I Cr. Bartosh said that he had played football and had seen various fields where there was no protecting fence, and that every thing worked smoothly. The referee had the power to put any spectator wno encroached back from the line. He ' thought that was • sufficient. Cr. Copk strongly advocated a fence, pointing oue that mere was a possibility of representative matches being played in Otaki if the ground was suitable. Cr. Young contended that if the fence was erected the council would have the backing of ratepayers. After further discussion it was decided to refer the matter back to the domain comnfittee, with a suggestion that a rope fence might serve the purpose.