block. But the conclusion reached was that economy was not consistent with flexibility, and any attempt to force interchangeability into the buildings invariably met with wastage of space and increased costs. It was therefore decided to place all the 4- and 6-person flats in the tall blocks, since these two combined well in a given structural module, with the low blocks containing all 8-person flats. This arrangement results in about 1,000 flats of each size being within five floors of ground level. The living area of each flat is based on 35 sq. ft. per person, i.e. a 4-person flat has a nett living area of 140 sq. ft. Each of the three types possesses the same amenities-a kitchen, w.c., and verandah, the total area of which amounts to approximately 118 sq. ft. Some typical plans of housing units are shown in Appendix VIIIA.
127. The question of building some accommodation with communal facilities was considered, and studies prepared by the architects. There was a saving on equipment, though due to the height of the buildings, the usual saving on vertical runs associated with a concentration of appliances was non-existent. It was found that if standards were to be maintained the capital expenditure would be very little less than for self-contained flats, and management and maintenance costs would be higher. It was therefore decided to maintain the Authority's policy of building self-contained flats.
Structure
128. The structural cost of buildings of this nature inevitably forms a high proportion of the total cost, since the finishes and equipment are of an extremely modest standard. Lengthy investigations were carried out by the architects to effect every possible economy in the structure, four alternatives being accurately designed, quantities taken off, and items priced on current costs. This analysis gave a very clear picture of the most economical type of system to be used, and also a very accurate assessment of the spans and spacing of beams and slabs, etc. The final result is that the structure of the tall buildings contains a minimum steel requirement.
Development
129. It is proposed to develop the estate in three main phases of actual building operations, between January 1961 and May 1964 with the site clearance, filling and piling done as a preliminary phase over the whole site. It is estimated that about 142 weeks will be required for the whole project, spreading the occupation of the flats over the latter half of this period in a regular progression, in order to lessen the strain
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