PROJECTS IN HAND
NORTH POINT ESTATE
(Architect: Mr. Eric Cumine, F.R.I.B.A.)
The first project to be undertaken by the Authority, the North Point Estate at Java Road, was completed and occupation commenced during this period. The estate, located on a fine site of about 61⁄2 acres over- looking the harbour, is located between Java Road and the praya, the east and west boundaries being formed by Tin Chiu Street and Tong Shui Road respectively, and consists of three main sections, or courts. The West Court consists of a U-shaped perimeter block and one tower block; the Centre Court consists of one long block facing the concourse; and the East Court consists of a U-shaped perimeter block and three tower blocks. There is ample provision for playgrounds and gardens, which cover nearly half the total site area, while the ground floors of most of the blocks of flats have been left as covered-in playgrounds for use in wet weather. Along the harbour frontages of the East and West courts are wide promenades.
The total cost of the scheme is nearly $33m (including over $4m for the land), to be met by a loan from the Government Development Fund; the period of amortization is forty years, and interest on the loan will be paid at the rate of 31% per annum.
PROGRESS MADE
Work fell somewhat behind schedule during May, due to heavy rains, which often necessitated complete stoppages. This was the second wettest May on record, with a total rainfall of 35.21 inches: the record was set up in 1889, when 48.84 inches fell.
Progress of the work was marred by two fatal accidents. One, on 4th April, 1957, occurred when a plasterer fell from the tenth floor of Block WA to the roof of the Assembly Hall, and died on the way to hospital. On 5th June, 1957, a section of bamboo scaffolding collapsed; a labourer was buried by the debris, and died later in the day.
Hopes that the estate might be completed on schedule were rudely dispelled on 22nd September, when Typhoon ‘Gloria' lashed the Colony with 110 m.p.h. winds, bringing over ten inches of rain. It caused exten- sive damage on the estate: nearly all the scaffolding was smashed or subsequently collapsed, and what remained was blown out of shape and had to be carefully checked before further work could take place.
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