The Times THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 1937. Mr Semple and the Highways

Manawatu Times, Volume 62, Issue 35, 11 February 1937, Page 6

The Times THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 1937. Mr Semple and the Highways

The energetic Minister of Transport lias expressed himself with his customary colourful vigour in criticism of those motorists who have been complaining o£ the state of some of the public highways. Mr. Semple is undoubtedly justified in resenting some of the remarks that have been made. Taking into account the smallness of New Zealand’s population. the achievements in road-building are probably without parallel in the world, and both the department concerned in highways construction and the local authorities can be pardoned for taking some credit for the results achieved. Nevertheless there is one aspect of the reading position--probably only temporary—that is causing uneasiness among motorists at the moment. Some portions of our highways are at present being allowed to get into a state of disrepair which threatens to become a positive danger to road users. Take the case of ono section of main highway—that between Woodviilc and Dannevirke. Here the road surface has been so much neglected that it is difficult for motorists to pick their way in some places between the gaping holes in the tar-sealing. If they escape major damage tyres may be torn or rims buckled. This state of affairs is no doubt due to the local authority letting matters slide because the Highways Board is taking control of all main highways. Probably the board has larger plans in view, and in the meantime has decided not to spend money in patching a surface that may be replaced altogether in the near future. But surely the road-user should have some consideration. The section of road under consideration is rapidly deteriorating and requires immediate attention. If it is the local body’s job it should be done at once. If it is the Highways Board’s job it should not have to wait the carrying out of a more permanent scheme. Motorists are prepared to put up with some inconvenience, but they should not be asked to take avoidable risks. The Woodville-Dannevirke section is not the only portion of highway which needs attention. The main road over Mount .Stewart is badly pitted and urgently requires patching. Motorists need not be blamed for wondering whether in its preoccupation with its large-scale schemes the Highways Board will be in as good a position to look after the detailed maintenance of its vast network of highways as were the local bodies concerned.