1960-1961 — Page 41

MARINE DEPARTMENT LIBRAK

130. The project will be carried out in four phases, the first being regarded as a pilot scheme, and will involve the construction of about 1,000 flats to house approximately 6,000 people. Preliminary proposals, on this basis, are being drawn up by the Authority's architectural staff.

Sai Wan Extension

131. Investigations have been carried out into the possibility of extending the Sai Wan Estate on an adjoining but very steep site of about 4 acres. Preliminary proposals envisage the construction of about 640 flats to accommodate some 3,500 people at an estimated cost of just over $7m.

132. Consideration is being given jointly with the Architectural Office, P.W.D., and the Water Authority, for a combined flushing water scheme to supply this Estate and an adjoining Police Rank and File housing project.

OTHER SITES

133. The search for sites suitable and financially within the Author- ity's reach for low-cost housing has continued throughout the year, both independently and with the Planning Office of P.W.D. Considera- tion has been given to possible locations on Tin Hau Temple Road and at Aberdeen, both on Hong Kong Island. In the case of the former the cost of land proved prohibitive, and at Aberdeen the site had to be relinquished as through lack of funds the Authority was unable to proceed with work in accordance with the overall timing of the development of the area.

MAINTENANCE

134. A general maintenance schedule has been drawn up for the Authority's completed estates and tenders were invited at the end of 1960 on this schedule, containing about 2,000 items, based on work found necessary in the past. In January 1961, Messrs. Luen Sang Con- struction Co. were awarded the work. The operation of the maintenance contract is in the hands of the Management Staff, as reported in para. 154.

135. An unusual type of fire occurred on the North Point Estate on Chinese New Year's Eve (14th February, 1961) when the fibre board packing in an expansion joint in the West main block was found to be smouldering, probably as a result of children inserting fire crackers. The smouldering spread up the building, involving 11 flats and causing damage amounting to over $4,000. The Fire Brigade was in attendance

31