NOT FIREPROOF.

Auckland Star, Volume LX, Issue 246, 17 October 1929, Page 21

NOT FIREPROOF.

OKE TEEE HTTJi IXATS. BOARD REFUSES PERMIT. At last night's meeting of the One Tree Hill Roairi Board, an appeal against the decision of the board in refusing to grant a permit for the erection of flats at the corner of Wheturangi Road and Puriri Avenue, was made by the owner, Mr. R. R. Fisher. Mr. Fisher sought permission to alter a two-storeyed wooden dwelling into three flats, and also to construct 3even additional flats on the same property. The application for a permit was refused as the three flats would not be separated by fireproof walla, while the property was considered too small to contain two blocks of buildings. The building inspector, Mr. P. H. Hollingsworth, reported that it would be impossible to make the structure of three flats fireproof. Although fire escapes could be provided, these would only be of use to calm and collected persons. Excitable people would constitute a danger. Further, the by-laws provided that only one building could be erected on the property. The inspector said the proposal was the first sign of a building of that type in the district, and it was possible, if the permit were granted, that other applications would follow. If the permit were granted it would mean that structures could be attached to houses or verandahs. Mr. Fisher explained that, although the first proposed structure could not be made absolutely fireproof. Ills architect had taken precautions which were more stringent than those in the case of city flats. Fire escapes, he said, at every window and door in the building, would afford

I good means of exit. The alterations were for purposes of design only, as the other building would be constructed in brick and concrete. The board should put its food down on the proposal," said Mr. I. J. Goldstine, He said that the City Council was endeavouring to stop the erection of flats in particular areas, while the general trend of other local bodies was in. the same direction. If the structure would be absolutely fireproof, no questions would be raised. A precedent would be created if the permit werj granted. A lengthy discussion followed, after which it was resolved that the previous decision of the board be upheld.