Optional L.P.G. berths uncosted

Press, 8 September 1982, Page 10

Optional L.P.G. berths uncosted

Detailed studies of alternative harbour berths at Lyttelton for tankers discharging liquefied petroleum gas had not been instigated by the Harbour Board, its chief engineer, Mr J. B. Bushell, has said. Mr Bushell told the commission of inquiry into the proposed' Lyttelton-to-Wools-ton L.P.G. pipeline that until board approval was given “in principle’’ to a proposed development. thorough research was not done. Answering questions from counsel for Liquigas, Ltd, Mr B. Bornholdt, Mr Bushell said an inner harbour berth appeared suitable for L.P.G. tankers. Alternative sites including Gollans Bay, Quail Island and the Naval Point reclamation area had not been accurately costed, but Mr Bushell said their development could take up to four years and involve heavy

expense. The sites were also more exposed to wind and wave action and in some cases would need extensive'dredging of the shelter of specially constructed breakwaters. The existing oil wharf was “structurally suitable" for L.P.G. tankers but improvements could be considered to its spring fender pile and tyre system. The board has already approved its use by Liquigas provided tankers do not cross the harbour at busy times. The cross-examination of Mr Bushell will continue today. Earlier in yesterday’s hearing, the harbour board’s general manager, Mr J. A. McPhail, repeated the board’s user-pay policy. He said building a new berth would commit the board to heavy expense and Liquigas had already said that it was not willing to meet the cost.