SOUNDLY CONSTRUCTED

Sun (Auckland), Volume IV, Issue 1036, 29 July 1930, Page 9

SOUNDLY CONSTRUCTED

GRAFTON BRIDGE REVEALS LITTLE WEAR PROTECTION OF PARAPET Grafton Bridge i* in as sound a condition as when it was opened for traffic 20 years ago. This was the assurance given by the city engineer, Mr. J. Tyler, who was asked today how the great concrete structure was weathering in view of the reported trouble with certain small concrete bridges in the province. Mr. Tyler said that he had made a careful inspection a week ago, and found practically no sign of deterioration anywhere. He had made particular examination of the steel hinges upon which the big arch moves. When, the bridge was built, these were coated, with bitumen to shield the metal from the weather, and 20 years have had no harmful effect- Mr. Tyler said the bridge had been built of the best concrete mixed from river shingle, and it would stand to a great age. Asked if the City Council had in mind the widening of Grafton Bridge, particularly in view of pedestrian traffic congestion on the narrow footpaths. Mr. Tyler said that nothing definite had been formulated. He did not think widening possible without very great cost. The footpaths could not be extended any further. being carried on cantilevers which were now bearing all the weight they could support.

Proposals have been made from time to time that the parapet should be fenced or protected in some way in view of the number of persons who have leaped into the gully. Mr. Tyler expressed the opinion that no matter what was done, rato people would climb over any fencing. Moreover. % protective scheme would spoil the appearance of tlic bridge.