SHANNON BRIDGE.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XLIV, Issue 2453, 13 July 1922, Page 3

SHANNON BRIDGE.

WHAT TS BEING DONE. “We would suggest that you take steps to have a professional opinion given on the necessity of protective works.” So wrote the chairman of the Manawatu County Council to the Horowhenua Couni v Council, in the course of a letter in connection with the Shannon bridge. “We would also suggest,” the letter continues, “that the Government he asked, through the Membei for the district, Ibn l the engineer-in-chief he allowed to make an inspection of the bridge and hanks of the river, and to make a report on the matter.” The letter which was read at the Horowhenua County Council’s monthly meeting on Saturday, had; said the chairman (Cr. G. A. Monk) arrived too late to be dealt with at the last meeting. Their engineer, of course, realised that a certain danger always existed in connection with the bridge, especially at flood time. However, the council could not take any further action for a little while, since the engineer was taking soundings in conjunction with a Public Works engineer, and a report would he submitted later. Cr. Barber referred to the fact that there was an arrangement existing with the Post, and Telegraph Department whereby a report was forwarded to interested settlers when a flood was impending. Lately a rise of one foot in the Gorge had been reported, hut the exton! of land covered by water was much greater on this occasion than had previously been the case when only a foot was notified. He suggested that public bodies might he asked to supply progress reports concerning Che river at various points — perhaps Ash hurst, Woodville and Feilding. This would he of value, since the extent of a rise in the river at a particular point, and its effect. on another point, could he more accurately gauged; The engineer (Mr W. Anderson) suggested that a number of trees might be planted higher up ('he river, above the bridge. The discussion then <• mclnded and the letter was received.