Overhead wire debate not unique

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 15, Issue 690, 10 June 1997, Page 3

Overhead wire debate not unique

While King Country Energy and the Ruapehu District Council are at odds over burying power cables in some residential zones, other New Zealand councils are likely to have stiffer battles with their power companies. The New Zealand Herald reported recently that cable television lines, which are being strung along existing lines but at different levels, were becoming a problem, adding to the visual pollution objected to by residents. And power industry analysts warn that the extra revenue that power companies get from the cable TV line rental will be an added disincentive for power companies to put

their lines underground. Some councils in Australia, where overhead wires battles are also being fought, have taken steps to bill companies for the use of air rights. Representatives from the Ruapehu District Council and King Country Energy were to meet yesterday to begin negotiations regarding the council' s district plan which insists that new power cables be placed underground in all residential areas, even semi-rural zones. Acting chief executive Chris Ryan told the council that they will be looking at the rule as it applies to existing situations, that is, where poles already exist.