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Hokitika Guardian, 23 February 1927, Page 2

The particulars given this week of the fine .suspension bridge now erected over the Waflio river will have been read with much intccrst. The bridge supplies a long felt want, and there will he general gratitude expressed to the Government- for carrying out the promise in the matter with such commendable celerity. There was a period when the work progressed very slowly, but just at that stage the Engineer-in-Chief visited the district, and f allowing the representations made, gave such instructions that the required speeding up resulted. The officers of the Public Works Department are to he congratulated on what has been accomplished. likewise on the very fie - type of serviceable bridge constructed. The structure represents something of an engineering feat in that it is a new type designed specially for the site

which had to he spanned. From all accounts the work has been well and faithfully carried out. adding further to the praise and credit due the Department for the excellent bridge which stands as a very fine monument to the Government record. South Westland calls for many bridges, and the structures are materialising. The last twelve months or so has seen considerable activity in bridge building on the main south road, and the result is a l>oon to motor traffic—-which has grown by leaps and hounds in consequence. There remains yet two or three important crossings to he bridged on the main south road before the ful requirements of motor transportare met, but, we take it. within a

year or so the necessary provision for the remaining works will be provided. The improved highway is going to mean a great deal to the prospering condition in the south country. That is. as it should he. and indicates at °neo that the expenditure is worth while, and indirectly is proving of a reproductive character. South Westland. is therefore coming into its own. The bug-hear of isolation which held the district hack for so long is being removed, and lit the fuller means of regular intercourse, the territory is going to prosper. This lieiii" the eventual outcome, warrants the rigorous prosecution of the works still required, and those responsible for the matter should use every opportunity to press I

Hie claims of the district to the fullest so that the justice so long delayed may ho reaped, and the district enjoy the complete advantage it should in the matter of inter-communication.