DRAINAGE SCHEME.

Auckland Star, Volume LXVII, Issue 237, 6 October 1936, Page 11

DRAINAGE SCHEME.

HARBOUR SOUNDINGS.

INVESTIGATIONS PROCEED.

BROWN'S ISLAND PROJECT.

The investigations which are being made in connection with Auckland drainage and the proposed outfall at Brown's Island have not yet been completed, but it is expected that the complete report will be ready in about a month's time. This statement was made last evening by the Mayor of Auckland, Mr. Ernest Davis, who presided at a meeting of the Auckland and Suburban Drainage Board. "The investigations are taking longer to complete than was originally anticipated. but I would assure the board that the time being spent in this connection is fully warranted, to enable all concerned to act with assurance, in reaching a decision as to the suitability of the site for the proposed outfall," said Mr. Davis. "The initial series of current meter tests and float tests have been completed. Soundings have now been taken to ascertain the levels of the sea bed, in an area which has been selected for the proposed outfall. The directions and velocities of the. tidal currents in this area have been further examined, at fixed intervals throughout the tidal cycle. The completion of the chemical and bacteriological tests of sea water and sewage has been unavoidably delayed by adverse weather conditions, as it is essential in certain cases, that the samples for tests be taken during periods of dry weather flow of the sewage. Furthermore, the laboratories are available only for the period of three days. This group of tests is, however, now approaching completion. A small sedimentation tank has been constructed in wood at the Orakei works, for the purpose of demonstrating approximately, the process and result of plain sedimentation of sewasre. Samples of the diluent from the tank have been used, in connection with the group of chemical and bacteriological tests.

Careful Examination. "It may reasonably be claimed therefore, metaphorically and literally speaking, that these investigations have been reduced to a microscopic examination," Mr. Davis proceeded. "I am determined that nothing shall' bo left to chance, as far as it lies in the understanding of those engaged in the practice of modern sanitary engineering, as I keenly feel the responsibility devolving upon me, ill my capacity of chairman of the board, to obtain all data possible, so that a decision may eventually be made, with absolute confidence, as to tlio most suitable scheme of drainage for the district. ."Upon completion of the report, I will convene a special meeting of the board for the purpose of considering the results of the investigations," added Mr. Davis. "I propose to extend invitations to representatives of all local authorities and other organisations interested in the scheme, to bo present at the special meeting, so that there shall be complete public representation. I consider that j this course of procedure is particularly desirable in the general interests of the community, so that the fullest opportunity .will bo given to all concerned to become properly informed of the thorough investigation which has been made." Watertight Report. Mr. .T. S. Stewart asked if any of the work could bo gone 011 with. Mr. Davis replied that it would be necessary to have everything completed first, and the report would be as watertight as it was possible to make it. All the tests had to be made. Mr. Stewart said that they had had a report that Brown's Island would be the best place, and that had been endorsed by two experts. Mr. Davis: Subject to the tests being satisfactory. Mr. Stewart: We want to see it completed. Mr. Davis: So do we all. The Mayor added that all the local bodies would have to be satisfied. The present outfall at Orakei was not dangerous, but obnoxious, and it would be unwise to increase that outfall with so many surrounding districts requiring drainage. Those areas had all to be consulted. Tlife board had undertaken to explore tho situation for the benefit of the community in general.