Main Building Of A Wellington School Declared Unsafe

Wanganui Chronicle, 27 November 1948, Page 2

Main Building Of A Wellington School Declared Unsafe

WELLINGTON, Last Night (PA).— The main building of the Wellington South Intermediate School has been declared unsafe. This decision follows an examination by representatives of the Education Department and the Wellintgon Education Board in consultation.

It is possible that arrangements will be completed tomorrow to occupy the time of 382 pupils displaced by the decision. The building in question was badly shaken in the earthquakes of June 24 and August 2. 3942. Since then portions of heavy stonework parapets of the building have been removed and roof supports strengthened. Th* school committee, however, has not been satisfied a-s to the safety of th* three stonework buildings and about a month ago wrote to the Wellington Education Board renewing its representations for consideration of the matter. It was pointed out to tne hoard that the foundations of the main building had been cracked in the earthquake and that apart from the roof, which even in its strengthened state, was still regarded by the committee as far from safe, the walls were showing cracks running from the ceiling downward to the window spaces. The letter set in train the action which led to a decision to evacuate the building The school stands on an extensive site in Rinfout Street, almost opposite the Athletic Park football ground.