1959-1960 — Page 46

Accommodation

135. It is planned to construct, in two blocks, of ten sections, averag- ing 13 storeys in height, a total of 2,114 flats, made up as follows:

5-person 6-person 7-person

518 (25%) 1,166 (55%) 430 (20%)

These flats will accommodate about 12,596 persons, i.e. at a nett density of 1,640 per acre.

136. Planning limitations, together with considerations of economy brought about by central corridor planning and standardized units led to the use of one long block running the length of the site, with 128 units per floor, and one shorter block, with 38 units per floor, on the other axis. This shorter block will have an open play space on the ground floor to provide a sense of 'open-ness' at ground level, whilst the ground floor of the longer block contains a 'parade' of twenty one shops. Simplification and repetition in planning, construction, and the use of materials have been exploited to the full, in an effort to reduce costs to the minimum.

137. It may be necessary to erect the buildings in two stages and this is allowed for in the planning and location of expansion joints. Two sections, at the southern corner of the site, are on land occupied by P.W.D. workshops, which may not be cleared for about 18 months. Advantage has been taken of the gentle slope of the ground by varying the heights of the buildings whilst keeping the roof lines level.

Construction

138. The scheme has been designed in a traditional manner, in reinforced concrete, and all finishings are simple. Plaster will only be used where necessary to achieve a required fire-resistance period. Parti- tions will be of concrete blocks, and balcony fronts will be of concrete, solid or pierced, as metal has been found expensive in upkeep.

Residential Units

139. In accordance with the Authority's policy, all the flats will be self-contained, and are absolutely identical in arrangement, with a living- sleeping room, private verandah, toilet with w.c. and shower, and a kitchen. The living area varies for the three flat sizes in depth only; width is constant at 15′ 0′′. Through ventilation is provided by louvres in the corridor wall, which in turn take in fresh air from the play spaces at each stair well bay. No door is provided to the kitchen. Surface drainage from the verandah will be via the Asian-type w.c. set in the

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