Daily News (Perth, WA : 1882 - 1955), Monday 12 November 1934, page 3


'GREAT EASTERN HIGHWAY'

'Premature/' Says R.A.C. President

The view that the suggested adoption of the name of 'Great Eastern Highway' as a term to describe the road which now leads from Perth through Belmont. to Midland Junction,- was premature, was advanced today by the president of the Royal Automobile Club

(Mr. J. R. W. Gardam). 'So long as\ that name describes the road, which runs directly to tho east, I do not see much against the proposal,' he said. 'The choice of such a highsounding name may be a tribute to civic pride, but I think the suggested alteration is premature, particularly in view of the proposed alteration in the railway gauge. For all we know, the change of gauge may take a different route from the existing line, which leads to the Eastern States. Traffic, of course, would follow the altered route. I think, therefore, that it would be better to wait until it is known what route the altered lino will take.' The suggested alteration of - the name of Ascot-road, so as to make it portion of the 'Great Eastern Highway,' was to be considered by today's meeting of the Perth City Council. , PECULIAR POSITION A peculiar position has arisen in con nection with the proposal to alter the name of various roads and merge them in portion of what is hoped to be known as the 'Groat Eastern Highway.' Originally, local governing bodies whose territories were concerned in the proposal, were asked to agree to an alteration of the uarne- of the old Guildfoni road to that, of 'Great Eastern Highway.' That proposal found favor witl» most bodies concerned, although the Guildford Council, for sentimental reisons, announced its objection to any proposal to change - the names of 'its olf! roads. Opinion from the Main Roads Department was lhat what is knowu as the Belmqnt-road should have the more highfunding title. While negotiations were in progress, some residents along thp Belmont-road settled the matter for themselves, and their premises were dnscribed as being on the 'Great Eastern Highway.' It would bo nice to win some of the £9000 prize money in the No. 21 Charities Consultation. The drawing will take plac'p on December 4, in good tirn.; for the purchase nf Christmas presents. Tickets are 2s Ud e'uclu