A COMPLETE SUCCESS

New Zealand Times, Volume XLIX, Issue 11225, 2 June 1922, Page 4

A COMPLETE SUCCESS

AUCKLAND CONCRETE ROADS. SIR, JOHN LUKE IMPRESSED. > EE PEESS ASSOCIATION. AUCKLAND, June 1. After a long experience of wood blocks in Wellington, where he occupied the mayoral chair for eight years, Sir John Luke remarked to an interviewer that he was much impressed with the progressive ,roads policy of Auckland, and was particularly interested in the concrete roads in the city. He -believed the concrete system to De a success, and although it was not his intention to express a comtrovoisial opinion, he admitted that he <Vas much impressed with this method of construction. With the Mayor, Mr J. H. Gunson, Sir John this week" visited various parts of the city, including the sub urban centres, which impressed the southern visitor with their progressive appearance. Difference of opinion had existed in the past in municipal circles as to tho utility and permanence of concrete roads. One school was inclined to the belief that a “cushion” of asphalt was required before heavy traffio should be received; others contended that the cushion was unnecessary. “Your city engineer was of the latter school,” Sir John Luke said. “I had a leaning towards tho view that a cushion was essential, but 1 must confess, after seeing a considerable portion of the Auckland roads, that the method followed has given entire satisfaction.” He added that of course Auckland had not to contend with severe frosts. “In Wellington,” he continued, ‘the wood-paving system has predominated, and I must say that it has been found a most excellent system, providing, of course, that the price is not largely increased. The authorities there are not unmindful of the good qualities of good concrete roads.” He was also impressed with the efficiency of the thoroughfares that had been put down in tar material in Auckland. He was much surprised at the improvement in loading conditions generally, particularly in the suburban districts.