474
( 10 )
16. The following tabular statement gives the annual rating valuation of the several districts in Kowloon, the sum realized by a rate of 14 % and the estimated annual cost of lighting and maintaining the lamps :--
Yau-Ma-Ti,
Hunghom,
District.
Kowloon Point,.
Annual Rating Valuation.
1% Rate.
Annual Cost of Lighting and Main- taining Lamps.
59,766
896
1,848
79,580
1,193
1,368
115,570
1,734
2,200
330
Monkoktsui,
Buildings in course of erection.
17. The annual rating valuation of property in Kowloon has, however, in- creased considerably of late years and there is at present reasonable prospect of this increase being maintained.
18. Under these circumstances, I am inclined to recommend to the favourable consideration of His Excellency the Governor the adoption of the proposals con- tained in paragraph 13.
19. Turning now to the Peak, I estimate this district will require about 100 lamps for the efficient lighting of the roads, exclusive of the Magazine Gap district. I have omitted the latter owing to the necessity, if this district is included, of laying a new inain from Queen's Road East up the Wanchai Gap Road, the cost of which would not compare at all favourably with the advantages to be gained.
20. The estimated cost of fixing 100 lamps is $4,850.
The
21. There is at present no rate for lighting levied in the Peak District. annual rating valuation is $96,450, 14% per annum rate would realize an aunual revenue of $1,446, and the annual cost of lighting and maintaining 100 lamps would be 100 @ $36=$3,600, or equivalent to, say, 4% on the rating valuation.
22. In conclusion, I would point out that apparently from the enclosed cor- respondence the Gas Company are not prepared to carry out the alterations and extensions proposed at the prices named by the Committee in their report.
I have the honour to be,
The Honourable
THE COLONIAL SECRETARY.
Sir,
Your most obedient Servant,
FRANCIS A. COOPER,
Director of Fublic Works.