10-36-80/7 Vol 2 (CCE)
MEMORANDUM
8 Aug 62
ADM(C&P)SF
Property Requirements
Deferred Gap Filler Programme
Following discussions and meetings held with engineers of the department and DCL a policy in respect of the land acquisition phase of the deferred Gap Filler programme has been drafted. In line with the deferment decision the construction status at each site has been reviewed and it is considered that we should proceed with land acquisition at only 25 of the original 45 stations.
The following resume reflects our review of the property situation and may be of assistance in assessing the direction passed to Department of Transport in the attached draft letter.
"A" - construction of facilities at the locations in this group is in varying stages of completion and access roads at all of the 25 sites are completed or substantially completed; the property including that making up the access roads should be acquired if we are to protect the Crown's investment until the deferment period is over or until we are instructed to declare the sites surplus and dispose of the constructed facilities.
"B" - this second category is made up of those 20 Gap Filler sites for which construction contracts have not been let. Initial property negotiations have been undertaken by Department of Transport and the RCAF recommends that we have its land agents attempt to extend the effective period of any options already obtained for one year when the deferment order may be lifted. At those locations where we have only permission to enter for construction, Transport will be instructed not to obtain options but to refer to this department, with their recommendations, any claims for damage.
The Department will not be proceeding with hydro contracts for any of the 45 sites. In addition, the existing forestry lookout towers will not require removal until the deferment order on the programme is lifted.
Accordingly, the draft letter at flyleaf has been prepared for signature and despatch if you concur.
(RB Whiting) A/C
CCE
2-8702