Waikune closure concerns Nat Park

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 4, Issue 14, 2 September 1986, Page 1

Waikune closure concerns Nat Park

Waikune Prison is set to close in the near future, but when it does, what will be the future of the buildings and the near-by township of National Park? Spokesman for the local community council. Marshall Gebbie. expressed concern at the closure and the repercussions on National Park. particularly if the prison became a tourist resort for skiers. "We also don't want to see the institution fractionated if it's handed over to a body that will work with the community. wcll that's marvellous. Wc don't want to see it blown to the four winds." he said. Mr Gebbie said that the community council had made all manner of propositions to the Government, but "to no avail". "Frank O'Flynn said that • the army didn't want it. but that's not what they told mc." he said. "An MP said to me 'I think they're making a mistake - they're going to need that prison'. and I agree with him." Mr Gebbie felt that a lobby on the closure by National Park residents would be ineffective, and that it would take a far greater force to sway any decision-making at this time. National Park residents also fear that the loss'of 33 prison staff and their families will result in.the downgrading of the local primary school.