OPEN COLUMN.

Lyell Times and Central Buller Gazette, Volume VI, Issue 274, 22 May 1886, Page 2

OPEN COLUMN.

We are at all times ready to give expression to every shade oj opinion, and the discussion of all matters of public interest, but in no case do we hold ourselves responsible for the sentiments of our correspondents. W r HAT IS WANTED! [to the editor of the lyell times.] Sir, —So ambiguous a title as the above will naturally cause various criticisms by the numerous readers of this paper, but, as your columns are full of the requirements ot other localities, a word from our midst may not be altogether thrown away upon those who reflect a desire to cater tor mutual comfort and enjoyment of a public who are debarred the many social and healthy amusements privileged to those in more advantageously situated centres. Many times have steps been taken to lay off a racecourse, but a moments' consideration will show how impracticable and unremunerative such an undertaking would prove; but what really would appear to be much required is a place, in or about the township, to which the public can retire at will from the dull monotony of Cliff street to healthy invigorating enjoyment, either mental or physical. As the cry of the present age appears to be Land for the People, we should not be backward as a community in echoing the same. The visitor to Lyell must have been struck by the numerous urchins trundling barrel hoops along our main thoroughfare, waggons standing at either extremity to unload, with their respective teams wandering about without any express object except to annoy the general public who are traversing the street, whilst underneath our very township otherwise destitute of fiat country lies a very pretty and conveniently situated paddock, which at a very inconsiderable expense might be transformed into a recreation ground for youth, and a pleasure resort for many months of the year for those of more matured years, added to which it would increase the beauty of the natural charms which our town is already possessed of. Should some philanthropic members of our community take this very simple an/l much desired matter in hand it might be the means of affording eujoyment, ease, and a variety of substantial benefits to the public at large. Rus in Urbe.