‘Time is ripe’ for rules for motorists

A council in Awatere Valley discusses whether there should be rules for motorists, this week 110 years ago, as we take a flick through the archives. From the Marlborough Express, October 15, 1913.

The regulation of motor traffic was a subject that received scant attention at the meeting of the Awatere County Council yesterday.

Considering the general growth of the traffic and the fact that the Kaikōura County Council had formulated rules to govern it, Mr Jenkins suggested that the county council should take similar steps.

Mr Shirtliffe was also of opinion that the time was ripe for action by the local authorities; but the chairman considered that a scheme of regulation was impracticable.

Mr McRae contended that the most necessary regulation to adopt was the blowing of horns prior to turning dangerous corners.

No action was taken, Mr Jenkins stating his intention of introducing the subject on a future occasion.

ALSO IN THE NEWSPAPER

The faces of those engaged in rural pursuits in Marlborough have worn an anxious look during the last few days owing to the protracted spell of sunshine and the likelihood of its continuance.

But when refreshing spring showers began to fall in the Awatere and Wairau Valleys yesterday afternoon the apprehension gave way to pleasure, and generally contentment was expressed at the opportune rainfall.

The seasons, both winter and spring, have been unusually dry, and the recent fall is therefore all the more acceptable. During this morning showers fell frequently, and towards noon an unusually heavy rainfall was experienced in some parts of the town.

The weather was warm, and the conditions are admirable for the growth of vegetation.

During discussion of the Clarence bridge at the meeting of the Awatere County Council yesterday, it was stated that re-decking would have to be effected within a few years’ time, owing to the fact that the birch timber which was principally used in the decking had not proved very durable. The growing use of the telephone service in the Awatere district and the delay frequently occasioned in connecting with Blenheim prompted Mr J. W. Shirtliffe to move at yesterday’s meeting of the Awatere County Council that representations be made to the Chief Telegraph Engineer, Wellington, through the Postmaster at Blenheim, asking that another wire be installed between Blenheim and Seddon. The motion was carried.

A final reminder is given of the sale which will be held tomorrow in the Presbyterian schoolroom, for the benefit of the Barnardo Homes.

The Awatere Valley, nowadays traversed by grapevines.