TOLL GATES.

Putaruru Press, Volume II, Issue 18, 14 February 1924, Page 2

TOLL GATES.

MINISTER REFUSES SANCTION.

Only in Exceptional Circumstances.

At a recent meeting, after much discussion, the Matamata County Council decided to make application for permission to erect three toll gates in the county, the proceeds from which it was hoped would pay the cost of the upkeep and go to- \\* ards improving these roads, which were used practically wholly by through traffic. The reply, a direct refusal of the desired permission, was received from the Minister at Friday’s meeting*. The requests were in connection with the Kaimai, the Rotorua-Tirau, and the PutaruruAtiamuri roads. In his reply the Minister staled:— “I*have carefully considered this matter and have to inform you that the policy is and has been for some considerable time, to steadfastly re- I fuse to sanction the establishment of toll gates except where there are very exceptional circumstances governing such establishment. In your communication you indicate that most of the traffic on the routes suggested for the erection of the toll-gates is of tourist character, but it cannot be admitted that in this respect your county is peculiar. Under the circumstances it is regretted that I cannot recommend 'j his Excellency to consent to an Order-in-Council for the erection of the toll gates.” Cr. Judd suggested that the Auckland Automobile Association, the Hawke’s Bay the ivotoun Chamber of Commerce and other bodies be VvrWttri to pointing out the Council’s gaetif a 'and the reply, and asking- (ews held by members; . f‘l?o that the gates were intended placed on the county Jlounj i &vj|jj&r. in each case or roads ■gjr-fYi-. welbe used, practically wholly by BPlli&ats, and could not be maintained ridings which they did not Stopford stated definitely that HKT would not sanction any more exPpenditure from his riding’s fund on the up-lceep of the Kaimai. Other members were also of the opinion that it was unfair to expect the respective ridings to contribute to the up-keep of the reads mentioned. The suggestion was adopted, and • the Council further decided to review the matter when the replies to the letters were received.