Pipeline neglect having predictable consequence
AN anonymous DCC staff member reports (ODT, 4.12.18) that the water pipelines from our only freshwater sources at Deep Creek and Deep Stream are in a shonky state and in his opinion a high failure risk, which would leave the city dry for an indefinite period. DCC staff downplay the risk but I can back the informant up, as I investigated these pipelines as part of a report to the council, in about 1992, on the state of Dunedin’s water supplies and came to the same conclusion.
My lengthy report to the council was very well received and most of the recommendations were actioned but it seems the pipelines have been largely neglected and are now in a worse state than in 1992, and climate change can only increase the risk of major failure.
It is deeply worrying that in the 201828 Ten Year Plan, there is no mention of urgent works to the pipelines to secure our vital water supply. Instead, the council has become distracted by frivolities like the glitzy waterfront development and committed $20 million to that project. I think the money would have been more wisely spent on securing our vital water supply.
We have to thank whistle blowers from within the council who have our safety in mind and who also exposed the longterm neglect and rot (literally) within the Aurora Energy network. Stewart Webster
Dunedin
North Dunedin
YOUR editorial (ODT, 8.12.18) gave a very positive appraisal of the progress achieved in the North Dunedin area — vastly improved student conduct and a generally cleaner and tidier look in the campus area.
But what I find very disturbing has been a plethora of property developers over the years ruthlessly demolishing older dwellings, some of which were structurally very sound, replacing these with quite ugly and bland blocks of flats for student occupancy. This has effectively obliterated the character and charm this area held over many decades.
As a 70yearold born and bred in this part of the city, I find what we have now quite despairing. In some streets, developers have seized every nook and cranny of land to build student accommodation. It is in many instances a culture of financial greed, at any cost.
1080 debate
Clive McNeill Northeast Valley A SHOCKING story in the New Zealand Herald told of a Doc employee’s family terrorised by anti1080 people and covered their hatefilled rhetoric, antigovernment motives and how they are woefully misinformed.
All my pro1080 and anti1080 friends are nice people. I’ve done a lot of listening. My anti1080 friends appear to be very well informed. They include scientists, naturalists, animal lovers, foresters and former 1080 licence holders.
I am a scientist, and while I enjoy a good conspiracy, it would be speculation to say why people believe what they believe, but I can speak for myself. My three biology degrees majored in ecology, toxicology and pesticide science. I come from a family of naturalists and outdoor people. I’ve spent thousands of hours in the wilds. I’ve been a research and forensic scientist all my working life.
I prefer to rely on firsthand observation and scientific research. My beliefs are flexible. When I researched 1080, I focused on independent peerreviewed science, not what you bump into first off.
I am not antigovernment. I am in no doubt that 1080 does more harm than good to our wildlife and native forest. Robin Wakeling
Wellington ...................................
BIBLE READING: In Your unfailing love You will lead the people You have redeemed. — Exodus 15:13.