‘Silent majority’ prepared to wait for Tarras plan Balclutha memorial
THE vocal minority, in regards to the possible airport in Tarras, have had more than their fair share of publicity culminating in the ridiculous ‘‘die for Tarras’’ protest in the Christchurch City Council chambers.
We as part of the silent majority are prepared to wait until there is actually a plan, see what the benefits and negatives might be, and then make an informed decision.
We who have lived in Tarras for many years, a considerable number who are multigenerational, have seen progress in many forms over the years.
The Clyde Dam being one that while initially scorned by many, is now seen as a major asset; whether the amenity value of the lake itself with the fishing, rowing clubs, yacht club and general boating or to the major upgrading of the roading network. Not just the Cromwell Gorge but all the way through the Lindis Pass to accommodate the passage of the heavy machinery, construction equipment and materials.
Mark Davidson
Pete Jolly Beau Trevathan
Tarras
FIRST of all, let me preface this by saying that I have not lived in Balclutha for more than 40 years.
However, I was born and bred there, and will always be a ‘‘Clutha boy’’.
What I am alarmed at it is the impending destruction of the War Memorial Hall.
I am sure the reasons why/why not it should be retained have been covered, so will dispense with that, but suffice to say that I have heard from various sources both sides of the argument.
What puzzles me most is the big differences between the results of the ‘‘survey of the ratepayers’’ and the ‘‘public consultation’’. From what I am led to believe the former was strongly for retaining the War Memorial Hall, while the latter strongly supported its demise.
I would have thought with such a big difference of opinion on such an important land mark a referendum would have been the prudent way to solve this emotional issue. We can always build something new, but once an icon is destroyed it is gone — forever.
It appears to me the silent majority has been just that . . . silent.
Good people of Balclutha, you need to stand up and be heard. Answering a survey is not enough. As the prodestruction group have shown, you need to get your views heard.
Is it too late? I hope not.
Rodger Hansen
Berala, NSW