THE CHRISTCHURCH FIRE.

Manawatu Standard, Volume XLI, Issue 8508, 10 February 1908, Page 2

THE CHRISTCHURCH FIRE.

TOTAL INSURANCES

Per Press Association CHRISTCHURCH, Feb. 9. t The gross amounts to be paid over by the insurance companies on account of the fire are estimated to exceed £300,000. The Mayor has received the following telegram from the Premier:—"l heard with the deepest regret of the disastrous fire that has occurred in your city and by "which a large number of your fellow-citizens have suffered a severe financial loss. In addition . the throwihg-out-of-work of a large number of employees is a most serious matter and I tender my earnest sympathy both - to the employers and the employees. I feel sure, however, that those concerned will with the characteristic pluck and energy of our people make the best of a bad job and quickly overcome the difficulties brought about by the great disaster."

The ruins of the fire are still smoking vigorously and occasional flames make their appearance amongst the debris in spite of the enormous quantity of water that has been pumped in by the brigade. The debris inside the scorched and shattered walls of the D.LC. building seems to contain still a good,deal of inflammable matter as several small fires could _ be seen this morning. Probably it will be at least a week before it will be possible to start the work of clearing away the ashes. Some of the walls at present standing are obviously in an unsafe condition and they will have to be pulled down as soon as possible. The White Hart frontage is fairly safe but the front wall of Ashley, Bergh and Co.'s building and the adjoining premises is cracked extensively and several pieces have fallen. The D.LC. walls in both Cashel Street and Lichfield Street have been practically demolished and the wall of Wardell's factory facing the right-of-way haß been pulled down, filling the right-of-way with bricks. Negotiations for re-building operations have been opened in several instances, but it will be some time before any definite plans are prepared. There is no doubt, however, that ultimately the appearance of the city will be improved as a result of the fire. The land covered by v the fire has increased enormously in value during recent years and owners will take the opportunity to secure the maximum return from the land available. This will mean larger buildings.