H.—27

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(3.) In populated districts we recommend a maximum quantity of 50 tons ; in other districts where natural conditions afford suitable protection we consider that the maximum quantity may be increased to 100 tons. " Populated district "is denned to mean a district in which there is more than one dwelling per square mile within a radius of five miles of a magazine. (4.) We are of opinion that a number of small magazines is preferable to one large magazine. (5.) We recommend that the magazine at Maraetai should be continued and that at Thames be closed. (6.) We recommend that, except on railways, the transport of explosives, other than those in Class 6, in mechanically propelled vehicles or in trailers behind such be prohibited. 7. Having inspected the harbour and approaches we founded our conclusion that the magazine at Maraetai should be continued on the following reasons : — (a.) Its isolated position in comparison with other sites : (6.) Protection afforded by natural features : (c.) Distance from frequented steamer routes : (d.) Sheltered position from prevailing winds and sea, thus facilitating lightering operations : (c.) That sufficient land has been acquired to ensure continuous isolation and compliance with Home Office regulations : (/.) That it offers safer conditions than any of the islands which are situated in a sufficiently sheltered position to allow of transport of explosives with safety and minimum interruption. 8. The following reasons govern our recommendation that the magazine at the Thames be closed :— (a.) Too close to existing houses, town, and road, observing that in addition to the usual damage caused by an explosion there is grave risk of a serious landslip occurring, which would cause further damage to existing buildings and road : (6.) Faulty construction, in that — (i) Buildings are too close together; (ii) ventilation is imperfect; (iii) there are no shifting lobbies ; (iv) lightning-conductors are of bad design ; (v) there are no provisions for maintenance of equable temperature : (c.) The means of conveyance of explosives to and from the magazine are dangerous : (d.) The necessity for handling explosives on the roadside. 9. Having recommended that the present site at Maraetai be retained for magazines, we make the following remarks and recommendations with respect to the existing building :— (a.) That the "building itself is a very suitable one : (b.) The maximum range of. temperature is very small—an important point in all magazines : («..) That the ventilation is satisfactory : (d.) That the number of working-entrances be reduced to one near each end, the others to be blocked by dwarf wall and door above for lighting purposes : (c.) That lightning-conductors be reconstructed in accordance with latest principles : (/.) That racks be provided within the magazine for the stacking of cases, to prevent any likelihood of cases becoming dislodged : (g.) That a proper shifting lobby and barriers be provided, as required by British regulations : (h.) That gritless asphalt be used for repairing the flooring in the entrances : (i.) That a separate detonator-store be established at least 50 yds. to the ' eastward of the magazine, and a regulation traverse be built.