3-028-130 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

The new docks and repairing-basin at Chatham, 1871. 'The new extension works at the Royal Dockyard will be of great service to the British Navy...The..."repairing" basin...has been constructed on a large tract of marsh land adjoining Chatham Dockyard, the whole of which has been devoted to the construction of three large basins, with accompanying dry docks...These three basins are for "repairing" (this basin is finished), for "factory," and for "fitting-out" purposes. They cover altogether an area of 380 acres...The "repairing" basin occupies twenty- two acres, and is connected with four dry docks, of which two are now complete. It is 80 ft. wide at the entrance, with a length varying from 430 ft. to 468 ft., and will allow for a depth of water varying, according to the tides, from 30 ft. to 32 ft. The workmanship has been provided partly by convict labour and partly by the contractors...The cost of the whole work is estimated at £1,750,000...This basin alone, with its docks, will contain a small squadron, and is provided with appliances for dealing with all classes of repairs. The contractor for these works is Mr. A. Gabrielli; Mr. A. Golla, C.E., is the contractor's engineer'. From "Illustrated London News", 1871.