Linz will keep Pareora school tidy

Land Information New Zealand (Linz) has owned up to having responsibility for the upkeep of the now closed Pareora school.

The admission comes after concerned residents highlighted the deteriorating state of the property since the school closed in December.

Manager of land and property at Linz, David Montgomerie, said the department had taken over managing the property from the Ministry of Education in February.

‘‘Contractors are scheduled to mow the lawns next week and then on a monthly basis,’’ Montgomerie said.

"The contractors will alert us to any other issues, but we welcome contact from the community.’’

Timaru District councillor Steve Wills said he was pleased Linz had taken responsibility for the clean up.

‘‘I am quite happy for the local community can take comfort that their children can play safely on the playground without any hazards.’’

Wills was, however, disappointed that the two departments had taken so long to come forward while the land was neglected.

‘‘As the council we were well prepared to come in and get the place cleaned up but were prevented from doing so by due process.’’

Waitaki Member of Parliament Jacqui Dean said while she was relieved by Linz’s commitment to finally clean up the property, the people of Pareora did not have to tolerate being put at risk.

‘‘None of us would like a run down and shabby facility on our doorstep. Quite apart from the untidy look, there’s always the threat of vandals, fire and vermin.

‘‘While I am relieved that Linz will start mowing from next week, I expect them to commit to regular maintenance to the satisfaction of the local community.

‘‘Further, it should not be up to the Pareora locals to make sure that work happens. I’m always happy to come and meet with local people should this situation not get better, and give Linz a hurry-up,’’ Dean said.

Concerned Pareora resident Yvonne Pringle said on Tuesday the school was derelict and looked awful.

She was unavailable for comment yesterday.