Cost of Works.

In considering the actual cost of the works as compared to the estimated cost given by Sir John Coode, it must be remembered that he reckoned to obtain the stone from the Fairdown, where a quarry was then supposed to exist, which was proved to be useless. To the Fairdown a line of railway was already laid when Sir John Coode was here. But when it was found that the stone must come from Cape Foul wind, page 11 it became necessary to construct a line to the Cape, which was not provided for in his estimate. This was a somewhat costly line—7 miles long—and it had to be taken down to the level of the sea beach on a gradient of 1 in 40, through deep cuttings and high embankments. In addition a branch line 60 chains long was constructed to reach the Limestone quarry, which was on the top of the terrace at the back of the Granite.

These lines were laid in a substantial manner, having in view the heavy traffic intended to be carried, and a costly plant of locomotives, cranes and rolling stock was procured, also with the view of doing a large traffic and hastening the completion of the work. These anticipations have been justified, and the permanent way and plant are now on hand in good condition.

Taking Sir John Coode's estimate as the basis of the value of the work done on the breakwaters, the actual cost as now ascertained must be considered as very economical.

Sir John Coode estimated the cost of the breakwaters, including the Duller bridge and all plant and appliances but not including the railway to Cape Foulwind, at £438,776.

The actual cost, taking the same basis as he did, that is to say excluding the Cape Foulwind railway, is £297,037. But as the stone had to come from Cape Foulwind, the railway bad to be made to the Cape, and the cost, including its construction, was £336,320; and their remains the plant and permanent way on hand which is worth, taking depreciation into account, about £23,500.

There remain certain works to be done, viz., to complete the breakwaters, to make the training wall, to dredge a navigable channel and provide certain requisites to equip the harbor for an extended traffic, the total of which is estimated to cost £116,200, which may be classified as follows:—