THE TRAMWAY SCHEME.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LVII, Issue 183, 12 January 1915, Page 4

THE TRAMWAY SCHEME.

i he deputation that waited upon the .Mayor yesterday arc to Be commended fur their action in upholding the interests ol the \\ est End ratepayers with regard to tram facilities. Although no action had been taken by the Council as to tile town eln!;\ suggestion that the contractors should he instructed to leave tile section in Devon Street West from Kgmont Street to Morlev Street until alter the completion of the other works, the residents in question were jii»tili.-d in raUiiig a protest, especially as much of tin; Council's business is done ii\ committee, and it sometimes happens that orders are given before the reports are formally brought under the consideration of the Council. At the same time, it proves the propriety of the town clerk's action in bringing the matter to the attention of the Council, and thus arousing public interest. Apart from that aspeet of the question, it was the duty ol that official in his capacity of treasurer to warn the Council against entering upon more work than the loan money would pay for. The West End ratepayers are not alone in their grievance as to curtailment of the scheme, for it is understood that there is a prospect of shortening tin- eastern terminal., It is manifest that the whole scheme re-' quins reviewing, in consequence of j altered financial conditions. If it is to he carried out in its entirety as sanctioned by the ratepayers, the Council must lie positively assured that the loan, plus the 111 per cent., will suffice. Failing thai H*-iirsiniv. the Council can j either go to the ratepayers for a further ! loan, or find the deficit out of revenue. ' The length of time that elapsed between

tlie estimates being got out and the contracts being let lias materially affected the price of materials, owing in great measure to the war. In addition to that, some additional outlay for land has been incurred, and it may be necessary for a further piece, ot land at the eastern end to be obtained. The Eitzroy residents also look to the Council to prowide another Hall site, in exchange for tliat which is being appropriated for carshed purposes. The creation of Greater | New Plymouth was made possible on the faith of obtaining tramway facilities, and there should be no breach of faith, Now that the Council lias been made aware of the feeling that the original scheme should lie adhered to, it should not hesitate to face the situation in a businesslike way. The whole matter rests on the question of finance, and the ratepayers will certainly expect the Council to thoroughly and carefully eonaider its position on this matter, with the object of avoiding a financial muddle, anil securing a margin on the right instead of the wrong side. To court disaster now will certainly jeopardise the future extension of the tramway system.