THE TUNNEL IN PORT HILLS.

Oamaru Mail, Volume XXXVII, Issue 10241, 2 September 1909, Page 4

THE TUNNEL IN PORT HILLS.

(Per Press Association.) Christcliurch, September 1. A stupendous proposal was submitted "to tlie Harbor Board to-day by Mr Aitken, • who wrote suggesting the cutting of a gap in the Port Hills from Lyttelton to the city. He proposes a gap half a mile wide at the top and a quarter of a mile at the bottom. This would afford space for half a dozen railway lines and two good roads from the port to the city, and the spoil takgn out could be used for reclamation at port and making breastworks. The scheme was so stupendous that it took the members' breath away, but the letter was received.

The writer suggested his scheme because the difference of opinion regarding the canal would delay improved communication for years. ' . Mr Cyrus Williams, presented some figures showing the approximate expenditure which would be involved by giving effect to Mr Aitken's proposal. The estimate was based on the removal of a bill of 1200 ft two miles through at the base and tapering away to nothing. The cutting would be, say a quarter of a mile wide at the bottom. Mr Williams estimated that there would be 300,000,000 cubic yards to remove, and it would cost £14,900,000- The total cost of excavating and depositing the spoil would be £20,000,000. The letter was received. .