“Taranaki Central Press” WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20, 1937. THE PORT AT MOTUROA.

Taranaki Central Press, Volume IV, Issue 338, 20 January 1937, Page 4

“Taranaki Central Press” WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20, 1937. THE PORT AT MOTUROA.

We are convinced that the development of the Port at Moturoa is of paramount importance to the progress of Taranaki. The Chairman of the Harbour Board, Mr. C. E. Bellringer, has recently addressed the Taranaki Chamber of Commerce on the subject of future development—extension of the Breakwater and dredging at various parts of the Harbour. The address given by the Chairman, and the discussions which followed, were not reported in the Press, and we can only gather that the members of the Board were agreed as to the future programme.

It is felt .however, by many who are deeply interested in the Harbour which serves Taranaki that, though progress is being made, even greater progress could be obtained if a vigorous policy of development was pursued. In conversation with gentlemen who Were present and heard the address of Mr. Bellringer, we gather the impression that those in control appear to lack a bold faith in the possibilities of the Port.

We would like to stress again and again the fact that the geographical position of the Port at Moturoa is of National importance. It is the only deep-sea port on the West Coast of New Zealand. Its trade has grown and its future is one of great possibilities. We know thgt there is a division of opinion as to whether the Railway should retain its hold on the goods traffic, or whether the Harbour Board should provide sorting sheds on shore, so that lorries could obtain delivery at Moturoa instead of the New Plymouth railway station.

The subject is of provincial importance, and it is our intention to devote space in this paper to the future development of the Port. Central Taranaki, South Taranaki, and the whole of Taranaki will benefit from a vigorous progressive policy of Harbour Development, and we are out to assist in every possible way.