HARBOR WORKS.

Thames Star, Volume VIII, Issue 2974, 27 August 1878, Page 2

HARBOR WORKS.

The moneys lately borrowed by the Harbor Board for the purpose of constructing the more urgently required works •in connection with, the harbor are being advantageously expended, and the works are making good progress.* Firstly, the piles of the silt retaining works hare been extended about fire chains to the north side of the wharf. The total length of this work will .be 15 chains — 10 chains on 'the' north side and five chains on the south side of the wharf. The whole structure will, be banked up with mullock from the tips adjacent, and should be effective, in doing what it is designed for,* the retention of the tailings,, etc., coming from our batteries and creeks. The harbor authorities expect shortly to hare the dredge of the Auok'and Harbor Board placed at

their disposal when they propose to deepen the water at the end of the wharf to afford facilities for vessels coming alongside. It is clear, however, that unless something were done to retain the silt the work of dredging would be quite thrown away. Preparations arc also being mado for the extension of the wharf an additional 100 feet, for the purpose of giving increased accommodation ; at present it will not giye an appreciable increase in the depth of the water. Mr McDermott's contract from the Water Supply Committee for the laying of 4 inch water pipes down the wharf is now finished. The water is derived from the; County Supply and a pressure of 901bs to the inch was obtained at the first trial yesterday. -Several fire plugs have been alto laid which increase the safety from fire of vessels lying at the wharf. A meter for the measurement of the water used has been fixed near the toll house, and it is to be hoped will act as a preventative to the great waste of water which formerly > took place in the supply of the wharf. In a short time we will have the wharf well 1 lighted with gas, Mr Wade's contract for ' i the laying of gas pipes and erection of lamp-posts being almost finished. Six posts hare been put up on the wharf in connection with this very necessary work, which will be much appreciated by passengers by the night boats, and others who enjoy a starlight promenade on the wharf. We trust the Harbor Board will soon be placed by the Government in a position to carry out the much required permanent works, which, when made, will go far to place Thames in the foremost rank of New Zealand cities.