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Fence wanted to stop fatal leaps off cliff

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Thu, 22 Dec 2011 9:28a.m.

The Coroner has suggested the council investigate building a fence at the fatal cliff

The Coroner has suggested the council investigate building a fence at the fatal cliff

Wellington City Council says it will seriously consider a coroner's recommendation to install a barrier at a picturesque bay to prevent people jumping to their deaths.

Coroner Ian Smith has suggested the council investigate building a fence at the eastern end of Houghton Bay, on the capital's southern coast, in his findings into the death of 34-year-old James McVey.

Mr McVey threw himself over the 50-metre sheer drop in April this year and his body was later found floating in the sea.

Police investigating his death said at least one other person had committed suicide at Houghton Bay.

There is already a low barrier fence in the area, but Mr Smith suggested another fence to prevent people getting to the edge of the cliff.

Council spokesman Grahame Armstrong told NZ Newswire said the coroner's recommendation would be considered.

"But we don't want to blight the area with an ugly big structure."

* Readers seeking support and information about suicide prevention can contact Lifeline's 24-hour telephone counselling service on 0800 543 354.

NZN

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