Bookshop

Early in 1967 Sweet & Maxwell (N.Z.) Ltd. purchased 22 Kelburn Parade, which is situated within the area zoned for University purposes, on the understanding that they would be able to set up a bookshop there. Unfortunately, they did not clear this with the University and when the matter came to the notice of the Administration it was found impossible to consent to the necessary change of use. Sweet & Maxwell Ltd. then made a conditional purchase of Ltd. Kelburn Parade, which is situated within the area zoned residential 'B' adjoining the area zoned for University purposes

The purchase was conditional upon Sweet & Maxwell obtaining the consent of the Wellington City Council (Town Planning Committee) to a change of use of the properly "to permit their use as a University Book Centre to meet the requirements of the University of Wellington, the members of its staff and its students".

In September your Executive decided to support Sweet & Maxwell's application. At the hearing before the Town Planning Committee of the City Council representatives of the University and the Association appeared in support of the application. In October the City Council, on the recommendation of the Town Planning Committee, rejected Sweet & Maxwell's application on the grounds that it was contrary to town planning principles, contrary to the public interest and it would be a detraction fom the amenities of the other inhabitants. The City Council also said that the objections (which were withdrawn) were upheld and that the bookshop should be part of a shopping block in the University grounds on the eastern side of Kelburn Parade so as to avoid a traffic hazard.

Sweet & Maxwell have obtained an extension of their option to purchase and will appeal to the Town and Country Planning Appeal Authority. The Association was disappointed at the attitude of the City Council as the advantages of a University bookshop are obvious and furthermore under the existing legislation the University would not be permitted to set up a bookshop on its own land. It is to be hoped that Sweet & Maxwell's appeal is successful.