CEMENT SUPPLIES HARD TO OBTAIN FOR BREAKWATER

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXXVI, Issue 22907, 29 March 1949, Page 4

CEMENT SUPPLIES HARD TO OBTAIN FOR BREAKWATER

Difficulties in obtaining the required amount of cement for the making of blocks to fill in the gap i between the main breakwater and the extension and the capping of the extension were referred to by the secretary, Mr. E. A. Khull, and members at yesterday’s meeting of the Gisborne Harbour Board. The secretary reported that the works foreman had been engaged during the past two months mainly on repairs to the breakwater. Thirty-two blocks had been made in the blockyard. Five 3 ton scwt blocks and four 24-ton blocks had been placed in the gap between the main breakwater and the extension. Altogether, 20 blocks would be required for this gap. Mr. Khull also reported that the concrete plant had been transferred to the end of the main breakwater and the capping 6f the breakwater extensiem was proceeding from there. A distance of 162 ft. by 13ft. 6in. wide had been completed up to the original level of the extension and 14ft. partly done. Work Held Up “A light. rail track has been laid along the breakwater extension and concrete trucks are used to transport the concrete from the end of the main breakwater,” stated the report. ‘ The works foreman proposes to use the 12 blocks not required for the gap as a core for the capping where the depth of capping will allow. This ( will save time in completing each bay.” At present this work was held up owing to lack of cement.

“The position regarding cement supplies is very uncertain," continued Mr. Khull. "Manufacturing and shipping difficulties severely restrict the quantity coming into Gisborne. Steps have been taken to bring the bqard’s case before the local cement allocation committee and every endeavour will be made to obtain sufficient cement to enable the capping to be completed before the bad weather sets in.” Mr R. G. Clare considered that the board should get top priority for cement. If the harbour were to be closed no cement would come into Gisborne at all. . , . The chairman, Mr. A. J. Nicol, also expressed concern at the hold-up of the work owing to the lack of cement. A good deal of work had been done since the restoration work was started, said Mr. Nicol and, except for the delay caused by the lack of cement, the work was proceeding satisfactorily.'