SEA EROSION

Evening Star, Issue 23375, 19 September 1939, Page 11

SEA EROSION

DOMAIN BOARD'S POSITION TEMPORARY MEASURES QUESTIONED DISCUSSION AT ST. HILDA COUNCIL More than sandbags and brush are necessary to cope witu the trouble,” said Cr N. D. Anderson at last night’s meeting of the St. Hilda Council when it was moved that a letter from the secretary of the Ocean Beach Domain ijioarcl, referring to temporary steps taken in regara to the erosion at St. Clair beach, be received. The letter stated that tue members of the board, after inspecting the site of the sea erosion, did not consider it necessary to convene a meeting of contributory authorities to discuss the situation as suggested by the St. Hilda Council. The board bad taken all possible steps to cope temporarily with the position. It recognised the urgent »eed for permanent protective measures, but it did not consider the time opportune for the calling of a meeting. The matter was being closely watched, and the question of permanent protection would receive consideration at an early date. Supporting Cr Anderson’s comment. E, Longworth said that the receiving of the letter seemed like shelving, 'the matter. However, the council was in the board’s hands, but he did not think temporary improvements would he satisfactory. . . ‘ ‘ The only way to save the position, said Cr T. B. D. Koy, “ would be to construct a breakwater running out to the baths. That would mean, a big improvement to the beach. Cr Anderson then asked if the counsel's representatives on the board could offer any information. The mayor (Mr J. J. Marlow) replied that the board realised the seriousness of: the position. As soon as finances were available the board intended continuing the existing esplanade. That would provide the best and most effective protection. The other representative (Cr W. J. Lovell) said he had inspected the beach in company with two city engineers. They were agreed that some major form of protection was necessary, but they were satisfied that the present work would be all right for the time being. The board’s finances were not strong hnd the council did not want to push the board into spending money it did not have to.

Cr Longworth reminded council that the original proposals put forward by Cr Anderson meant the obtaining of first-class advice. “It is all very well for the council sitting at this table to be reassured by Cr Lovell’s words,” said Cr H. H. Johnson, “ but how far will those most affected' be prepared to accept that assurance?”

“ There is no need for anyone to be alarmed,” said the Mayor. “I have ■watched that beach for 60 years, and 1 can remember when it was in a worse state than to-day. I am not belittling; f%e seriousness of the erosion, but it is ftot.a question of danger.” “ I disagree entirely.” said Cr Anderson. “ The beach has never been in a worse state. Portion of property formerly occupied by Professor Dickie has been undermined. I inspected the beach on Sunday, and it is in a serious condition.’- originally- intended that Government advice be secured, but I admit that the present time is not suitable to press the Government, which has quite enough to do. Otherwise I would have_ gone further.” The motion was carried.