STREET LIGHTING ON NORTH ROAD

Southland Times, Issue 24228, 11 September 1940, Page 4

STREET LIGHTING ON NORTH ROAD

PROVISION NOT POSSIBLE AT PRESENT

A statement that the provision of street lighting on the North road outside the city boundary could not be undertaken at the present time was contained in a letter received by the City Council last night from Mr W. G. Pearce on behalf of the No. 18 District Highways Council. The council decided to send? a letter to the Main Highways Board asking that the question be kept in view and the provision made as soon as practicable because of the dangerous condition on the road. At the previous meeting of the council it was decided to suggest to the Southland County Council that lighting be provided on the road. A reply was received from the county that the Main Highways Board had -full jurisdiction over the road. The question was then referred to the Main Highways Board and the following reply was received from Mr Pearce:—

“A proposal to provide lighting for part of the Queenstown-Invercargill State highway from the city boundary to Waikiwi was considered by the' Main Highways Board some time ago, when it was decided to take no action. The reason for this decision lay in the volume of motor traffic. The board’s policy was to provide for street lighting when motor traffic exceeded 2500 vehicles a day, and the last census in February 1938 gave 2438 vehicles. I have no doubt but that the board would give this matter sympathetic attention if brought up again in normal times, but at present, with traffic, materially reduced by petrol restrictions, funds available for expenditure reduced, and economy required in expenditure of overseas credits, it is impossible for me to make a favourable recommendation. I am, however, advising the board of your representations, and will let you know if there is any likelihood of the work being carried out in the near future.”