WATER AND DRAINAGE.

Marlborough Express, Volume XLV, Issue 68, 22 March 1911, Page 8

WATER AND DRAINAGE.

TO THE EDITOR.

Sir,—Just a few lines in. reply to Mr Braddock's letters. lam quite in accord with Iris ideas re electricity, but he evidently has not studied the question of producer gas plants, which he will find are almost as economical in BLP. costs as water-power, and will therefore produce the electric power almost as cheaply. ■.- You will notice lie does not condemn the pumping proposals, but suggests a larger power scheme than the engineer's, to be used for many other purposes. I hope I jshall see this eventuate some day, but it has not a very close bearing to the present question. Her asks four further question 9. Answer 1. The engineer says the ultimate cost _of the whole work will be £65,000. I accept his estimate; evidently Mr Braddock does not. 2. Supposing Councillor Adams' and Mr Braddock's estimate of £2000 is correct, for the damage to the streets, this damage would be spread over several years, and should be paid out of the £65,000 loan, as it is practically part of the drainage work. It rests with the then Council and responsible officials to see that this is done correctly. 3. Compensation for trespass. Nothing is allowed, because it is not necessary to cross any private properties to get to the sea with our outfall pipe, and the pipes in town will be in the public streets. 4. The report answers this question. Mr Braddock will see a total amount of £3146 as down for engineer, clerical work, etc v and the Healtn Department appoint a proper official who has to approve all connections, etc., so these points need not worry him ED. PARKER.

The Blenheim stock sale, which was lield this afternoon, was very poor, those present being disinclined to buy. One or two linen were disposed of, but these went at low prices. There is no likelihood of the market improviug until there is a change in the weather.