WORKERS' HOMES.

Otago Witness, Issue 3018, 17 January 1912, Page 3

WORKERS' HOMES.

A WELLINGTON GROUP

WELLINGTON, January 10.

The foundation stone of new workers' homes, numbering 21, to be erected at Island Bay, was" laid this afternoon by the Hon. J. A. Millar, Minister of Labour. The Prime . Minister was also present, and a large number of people witnessed the ceremony. Mr Millar said these homes comprised the first group built in Wellington under "The Workers' Dwellings Act, 1910." A largo number of applications had been received from different towns in New Zealand. Twentytwo dwellings had already been begun in Auckland,' and 14 in Christchurch, and 11 would shortly be commenced in Palmerstem North. Applications were also being considered from Napier, Wanganui, Taumarunui, Rangiahua, Timaru, Temuka, and other towns. The Wellington houses would consist of four of four rooms, 16 of five rooms, and one of six rooms. The total cost with sections, ranged from £490 to £590. Payments would bo under the purchase system —namely, deposit £lO, and 7 per cent, (including 5 per cent, interest) on the balance, plus insurance. Weekly payments would range from 15s to 16s" 6d, including Is for rates. In 25i years the houses would belong to the occupants, which period could be shortened by paying additional sums. All the material was good, and the design and appearance compared more than favourably with other houses in Wellington of similar class. Applicants had the choice of plans free of charge, and the department would make reasonable alterations for particular requirements. Applicants could choose their own wallpapers and fittings. The sections ranged from 36ft to 40ft frontage, with 113 ft to 120 ft in depth, or slightly under one-eighth of an acre. The buildings would have all the latest and up-to-date conveniences. The cost, to the Government would be for buildings £9258 and for land £2217. It would, therefore be seen that a considerable amount of money was being spent on this excellent system.