MANAWATU RIVER BRIDGE.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XLIX, Issue 3767, 15 March 1928, Page 2

MANAWATU RIVER BRIDGE.

AN OFFER FOR THE OLD STRUCTURE. TENDERS TO BE CALLED IF OTHER BODIES ARE AGREEABLE. A copy of section 80 of the Local Legislation Act, 1927, concerning the liabilities of the contributing bodies towards the cost of the Manawatu river bridge and approach roads, was received from Mr. F. W. Furkert, chairman of the Main Highways Board, at the Horowhenua County Council meeting on Saturday.

Mr. H. J. Peacocke, contractor, Shannon, wrote asking if the Council wished to sell the old traffic bridge over the Manawatu river near the mhv one he was building; or, in the alternative, if the Council wished to have it dismantled. He had the plant necessary for the work, and would be prepared to pull the bridge down and stack the material up ashore for £350. If tho Council wished to sell, he would pay £IOO for the bridge as it stood. He had sent a copy of the letter to the Manawatu County Council, as he understood that they were also interested in the bridge.

Mr Peacocke’s letter came to hand after the following recommendation had been drawn up by the Works Committee: —“That the contributing bodies to the old Manawatu bridge be approached to ascertain if they would be agreeable to tenders being called for the purchase of the remaining structure, including demolition and removal.”

The chairman said he thought that the council should go on with this recommendation. It might be expedited, as Mr. Peacocke wished for an early reply.

It was decided that the clerk write to the Manawatu County Council and the Foxton Borough Council, and that if they are agreeable, tenders be called forthwith.

Respecting the new Manawatu bridge, the Finance Committee reported to the Horowhenua County Council on Saturday that, as it was of opinion that it was more satisfactory for each local body to be entirely responsible for its own loan requirements, it recommended that flic Shannon Borough 'Council be informed that its suggestion in respect to the raising of a joint loan cannot be entertained. The chairman explained that if a joint loan was taken up, this Council would become primarily responsible for the nayment of interest on the due date. Unless the interest was paid on certain days, a percentage was added, which the Council would not be able to pass on. The recommendation was adopted. It was deeded to call tenders for the purbase of the old bridge.