3
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pattern of one that has been satisfactorily tested at Chin Wan Tao. But whatever pattern of wall is adopted Mr. Eves informs me that it would be safe to add $700,000 to the original estimate on account of the extension of the reclamation and the wharf. The resumption of Blackhead's Lots will probably cost $600,000 and the strip of land North of the Salisbury Road is estimated at $30,000. The scheme now put forward for the terminal arrangements is thus estimated at $1,915,000 against $585,000 for the original scheme.
9. After full consideration and consultation with my Executive Council, I recommend that this heavy additional expenditure should be incurred. The extension of the reclamation is necessary to enable satisfactory terminal arrangements to be made. The acquisition of Blackhead's Lots facilitates the construction of a suitable Station Building and the provision of sidings to the properties on the South and West of the Peninsula. The extension and the acquisition together provide extensive wharf accommodation which if the Railway proves the success it is anticipated will be required by the public and will be remunerative to the Government. Even if it had not