PUBLIC BATHS.

Poverty Bay Standard, Volume I, Issue 5, 6 November 1883, Page 2

PUBLIC BATHS.

TO THB EDITOB. Sib,—l noticed in a recent issue of yoUf valuable paper a letter from a correspondent suggesting the advisability of the “ Fire Engine ” being utilised during the coming summer months, for watering the streets ana footpaths; I think the suggestion a good one, and well worth the attention of our Council; of course I look upon his suggestion, in reference to the formation of a corps, and furnishing a uniform, as piece of good natured “chaff.” I would also respectfully suggest for the consideration of the Council (or that of a private Company), that the services of tne Engineer might still further called into requisition, so as to supply an ample quantity or water for “bath- . ing purposes.” Supposing a brick and ( cement cistern was to be made, immediately adjoining the shed, excavated to a depth of say 8 or 10 feet by 100 feet long, and 80 or 40 feet wide, and let the cistern be filled and emptied as often as may be deemed necessary so as to secure a constant supply of pure water; the maximium measurements would give 280,000 gallons capacity, and the whole or part could be discharged by the aid of the usual glazed drain pipes into the river—cover the whole area—that is form ft square of 44 lean to’s ” around the cistern and subdivide those into compartments for the use of bathers, who may be only casual’s, of yearly subscribers ; compartments could also be devoted for the use of ladies only, and say that 200 yearly subscribers conld be obtained at £1 each, and a small charge made for non-subscribers, I have no doubt but that it would be self supporting, and if undertaken by the Borough the fees could be regulated so that as soon as all working expenses, and interest on the money and | principle laid out, was recouped? then ft cerresponding reduction could be made in the fees, as I do not consider this a source from which the Council could legitimately look for a revenue. At a rough estimate I 1 consider the whole works could be completed for somewhere about £500; however, if the notion is entertained correct estimates aud details could be furnished. I am told that already numbers of bathers assemble on the banks of the laruheru, to the annoyance of residents and passers-by. If the engine was put into use for either or both, of the purposes mentioned above, it would confer a great boon on the inhabitants, and could no longer be called the “ White Elephant,” and whilst not acting in its legitimate capacity as fire extinguisher (which I trust will be fora long time) would at all times form a useful and valuable adjunct to the Borough properties. I am, &c., ( John Dbummond, Civil Engineer.