LATE LOCALS.

Hokitika Guardian, 26 May 1921, Page 3

LATE LOCALS.

- At the Warden’s Court this morning, the Warden (Mr Bundle) heard argument on the application by Stuart and Chapman, Ltd., for three residence sites near Waitahn, applied .for by the company for the purixise of erecting workmen’s homes thereon. The applications were objected to by the Crown Lands Department on the ground flint the land was a river protection reserve, and that the Wifcden had no jurisdiction. It was contended on behalf n : the applicant that the river protection reserve had never been properly set apart in accordance with the Land Act, and therefore as the land was within a mining district, it could be taken up by any holder of a miner's right. Counsel quoted numerous authorities in support of his contention. Tlu* Warden decided that as the land had not been gazetted by proclamation as a riycr protection reserve, it was still Crown lands, and although the Land Board could not give a permanent title the Warden’s Court bad full jurisdiction over the area. He accordingly granted the applications, subject to certain conditions as to renewal and providing access between tlu* three areas and the stream of the river. Mr Murdoch appeared for the applicants.