THE WESTPORT-REEFTON RAILWAY.

Greymouth Evening Star, Volume XXXI, 5 August 1901, Page 4

THE WESTPORT-REEFTON RAILWAY.

Wellington, August 1. A railway deputation consisting of Colonel Pitt, Messrs Kerr and Reeves, M.L.C’s, Colvin, M’Kenzie, Graham, Guinness, M.H.R.’s, Betts, and Northcroft, County Chairman, Irving, E Suisted, Bailee, and Bayfield, were introduced by Mr Colvin to the Hon. the Premier and Minister of Public Works and explained that the object of the deputation was to urge upon the Government the advantages of providing railway connection between Westport and Reefton.

Messrs Bayfield, Betts, Bailie, Pitt, McKenzie, Guinness. Graham, and Colvin addressed the Ministers, and pointed out the benefit that would accrue to the district and the colony by the construction of this liner. It was shown that at least 100,000 acres of minera', timber, and agricultural country would be opened up, as well as the benefits derived by being joined with the general railway system of the island. The Ministers listened attentively to th£ views put forward, and pointed out that inasmuch as the liue from Reefton to Inangahua Junction was authorised, it would be wise that that portion be pushed on. At the same time the Premier gave encouraging hopes that money would be found to make the trial surveys for the extension to Westport. The members will do their best to push on the object of the deputation this session.