1957-1958 — Page 25

The west side of the site is particularly steep, sloping at an angle of about 45 degrees; for this reason development there has been kept to a minimum owing to the high cost of site formation in relation to the building cost. The buildings to be located on this part of the land have been planned on cross-contour development, whereby successive storeys extend toward the rising ground, and stop at their respective floor levels upon meeting the slope. Exits at each floor level have been allowed for at the points of intersection.

The steepness and natural difficulties of this site were predominant factors in the development: it was only possible to plan buildings of the most direct and straight-forward type upon it, if extremely high formation work was to be avoided. A considerable number of retaining walls are required, even at the lower end of the site, to form the various levels on which the buildings are to be placed. Existing nullahs running diagonally across the site have had to be carefully trained to be carried under roads and buildings, and through retaining walls. An approach road to the site had to be constructed, and a large turning space will be provided later on the upper levels. The majority of traffic will probably be pedestrian, and wide flights of steps will be provided for this purpose leading up from Cadogan Street. Other steps within the site will connect the various levels.

CAPITAL COST

The capital cost of the scheme, excluding that of site formation, is now estimated at $7,843,887.18. The loan from the Development Fund for this project is for $7,500,000, to be amortized at 34% per annum over forty years, but a supplementary loan will not be required, as the deficit (if such it proves to be) can easily be met from rental income now accruing from the North Point Estate.

METHOD OF CONSTRUCTION

The flats are contained in five blocks, each up to twelve storeys in height: all buildings will be of reinforced concrete frame construction, with reinforced concrete floors. The party walls between each pair of flats will be reinforced concrete spine walls, about 8 inches thick on the lower floors, and 5 inches thick on the upper floors. This method of construction provides adequate resistance against forces imposed by wind pressure on tall buildings. The external walls and internal parti- tions will be of brick or hollow pre-cast concrete blocks. Wall surfaces will be plastered, but not ceilings. The exterior will be painted with coloured 'Snowcem' while interiors will be colour-washed throughout.

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