WELLINGTON HARBOUR MATTERS.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXVI, Issue 2106, 4 February 1908, Page 2

WELLINGTON HARBOUR MATTERS.

THE EVANS BAY SCHEME. Press Association. WELT ! NGTON, Feb. 3. At a special meeting ox the Harbor Boa id bold this afternoon, Mr. Fletcher moved that in view of the altered position, due to the adoption of the Evans Buy; reclamation scheme, and to the intended purchase of the Patent Slip property, the Board hereby resolves to rescind the resolution authorising the construction of Uie dock at Clyde Quay, and to have the necessary steps taken forthwith to secure a moro advantageous site, in close proximity to tho Patent Slin at Evans Bay. Mr. Fletcher urged that the -present site was not favorably situated, and there would be shoaling to contend with. He was told that while tho entrance had been dredged to 42ft, recent soundings showed only a depth of 30ft. In 1003, tho commander of Ii.M.S. Penguin had ed astonishment -at the site chosen. As to tho money already oxpended, £17,320, no less than £16,155 was chargeable to dredging. The contractor for the dock had told him the present expenditure was only a waste of money. In a dock in Evans Bay, where there was plenty of water, a ship could be berthed, -whatever wind was blowing. Air. Wilford moved as an amendment that the secretary bo instructed to ascertain from the contractors for the dock, and report to the Board, whether they are willing to cancel their present contract, and upon what- terms. After considerable discussion the chairman said it was clear that members did not understand the position. The site was chosen as a result of negotiations and agreements with the City Council, which could not be varied, because tliey were matters of law. He ruled that neither the motion nor the -amendment could be put. Air. Wilford thereupon said that his amendment would, as a main motion, be quite correct, and gave notice to move it at the next meeting.