Rise in coal sales likely

Press, Volume CXIV, Issue 33450, 4 February 1974, Page 16

Rise in coal sales likely

(From Our Own Reporter) WESTPORT, February 4. An increased demand for Buller coal in the next few months is expected because of the closing of the Westport gasworks and the likelihood of restrictions on electricity use. A Westport dealer has already sent coal to meet a new Christchurch order, and he expects a new and steady trade with customers in the city. the pending closing of the gasworks would turn more people from burning coke to coal, the dealer said, especially if electric power were rationed. There has been a demand for Westport coke in more recent years, not only in the Buller, but also in Nelson and Marlborough. For some time the Westport Borough Council was unable to sell all of its coke, and storage facilities were overtaxed. But in the last year, although the price was increased, there has been a waiting list of orders, supplies being lifted almost from the mouths of retort beds.