GAS EXTENSION.

Globe, Volume XX, Issue 1612, 21 April 1879, Page 3

GAS EXTENSION.

Considerable activity is at the present time displayed by workmen in the Gasworks road. The occasion of this is the laying of a main of larger proportions than any hitherto used. This main is intended as part of an extension, which is calculated to supply the city with an abundance of gas, sufficient to meet the requirements of the rapidly increasing population in the district supplied by the gas company, As this main has to replace one of smaller dimensions (which will probably be used in some other part of the town), it is necessary to cut the smaller main, and the means by which this is effected is ingenious as well as expeditious. The tool is composed of an adjustable stock, carrying three steel wheels which, haying pressure applied, are made to revolve round the pipe and severs it in a surprisingly neat manner, leaving the end fit to be used again. Some difficulty will very likely bo experienced, owing to the depth of the drains on the south bolt. The castings being put down are of very excellent character, and some idea of their magnitude may be formed when it is stated that their weight is three-quarters of a ton, and special appliances are requisite for depositing them in the cutting. Although, as is well known, the Gasworks road is only half a chain wide space has been left for single cart traffic. Work was commenced last Tuesday, and through half the distance from the works to the Belt the main has been laid down, and the ground closed up. It is intended to extend the main for the present as far as Madras street, and further when mains arrive. The work already done prior to the commencement of the fresh extension was along the South town belt and Lincoln road past the railway gates. Now that the main is laid, advantage will perhaps be taken to erect some additional lamps in this direction, the more especially as a resolution to this effect was passed some time since in the Sydenham Borough Council. The work is being pushed forward as speedily ns possible, under the supervision of Mr Clemenshaw, the manager of the gas works, and will be completed in a short time.