C—2a'

Glen Afton Opencast This opencast has operated at irregular intervals during the year, with a completeshutdown from July to November, when all men and plant were transferred to Kemp's Opencast, Glen Massey. Stripping has now been completed and 454,080 cubic yards of overburden have been removed. During the year 15,803 tons 4 cwt. of coal were recovered, making a total extraction to date of 48,403 tons 4 cwt. 2 qr. There remain some 8,000 tons of coal to complete the extraction of the area. Arrangements have been made for the sale of a quantity of " ball fireclay," which is considered suitable for pottery-manufacture. Preparations are now in hand to restore the surface as far as possible and plant suitable trees on the area. Kemp's Opencast (Glen Massey) Production from this mine has been maintained steadily during the year, when 55,246 tons 9 cwt. of coal were produced. Since November, 1944, when coal-winning commenced, 100,217 tons 18 cwt. has been won. For the twelve months ended 31st March, 1947, 515,740 cubic yards of overburden were handled, making a total of 1,383,720 cubic yards of spoil removed from the mine. Six workmen's cottages were completed and occupied. Workmen from the mine have'also been engaged on the construction of the Wilton Mine access road from No. 3 to No. 3a Mines. Remedial measures to prevent erosion of the batters and silting of streams and pasture lands downstream have been found necessary. Preparations are being made for additional boring on adjacent areas to be carried.. out. I have, &c., P. M. Outhwaite, Superintendent, Waikato Controlled Mines.

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