PATUTAHI METAL.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXVI, Issue 2276, 22 August 1908, Page 2

PATUTAHI METAL.

CR. MATTHEWS’ TRAMWAY SCHEME.

MOTOR WAGGONS PROPOSED,

When tho County Engineer’s report on Cr. Matthews’ proposed tram-' way to the Patutahi quarry was being discussed by the Cook County Council yesterday, Cr. Lysnar said that while in Wellington ho had made enquiries, and had found that motor waggons could carry metal on. the roads in summer cheaper than either railways or tramways. He intended to place the information before the Borough Council, and also the County Council, at a future date. Experience. in America and England showed that motor waggons would beat the best railways ever constructed, ami improved the roads rather than damaged them, provided the engines passed over the roads in summer. The Council could invest in a waggon at once without waiting for the tramway, and it would bo found to do the work of seven drays. " He thought tho Council should carefully consider such an investment, as .• motor waggon would save money and carry metal at a cost of 2s per yardThe Chairman said the proposal was out of order, but suggested that a special meeting might be held to consider the question. Cr. Matthews then moved that the he instructed to take the necessary steps to push the Patutahi tramway proposals ahead. The roads were in a bad condition, and the Engineer had no metal to U6e on them. The County would never have good roads until a good supply of metal was made available. The Chairman argued that the plans should be pushed forward, but the members could also consider any other scheme for obtaining cheap road tnetal with a perfectly open mind. The ratepayers would have the final decision on tho question of raising the loan for the construction of the line. Cr. White said he would like to see a branch line of the tramway carried to the To Arai Valley. . The Chairman: Let us fix a day to discuss the question of the wid’:h of tyres and the carrying of metal. The Council then decided to meet on the day previous to the next general meeting to discuss the questions.