We have looked into the question of the materials requir for the proposed Pier, and are of opinion that, exclusive of the
timber for the deck and fendering, which we presume will be (rovide
in the Colony, the approximate value of the same may be considered
as
...
£6,500
Add 15% for contingencies, engineering and inspection charges.
439
£ 975
Screwing tackle, and such plant as may be
required for erection, which would be available
450
in connection with the execution of similar
Piers hereafter, say
Total
£1,000
£8,475
Say £8.500.
We are decidely of opinion that iron is preferable to steel for works of this class in sea water, and are confident that if the submerged portions of the Pier, and those exposed to tidal action, are in iron, the life of the structure will be much longe) than would be the case were steel adopted, having regard to the more rapid corrosion of the latter material.
We would recommend, as being the most favourable course, that Contract Drawings and Specification should be prepared in the usual manner, and that they should be furnished to you, in order that tenders might be obtained from reliable firms experienced in this class of work. The preparation of such sheets would occupy from two to three months from date of instructions to proceed.
coupled
It will not be requisite to refer to the Colony for fu ther information, sufficient data being available, with the know ledge which we possess of the locality, to enable the Contract Drawings and Specification to be made.
We have retained here the tracings received with you' letter, pending a decision with regard to the foregoing.
We have &c.,
(Sgd) Coode Son & Matthews.
A
31st March 1898.
*