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(39)
The Housing Act, 1961, came into operation in October, 1961, and
authorised an increase in the rent by 12½% of the cost incurred by the
owner in carrying out the improvements made to property.
In April, 1962, the Ministry of Housing and Local Government made it
clear that every facility should be given to encourage the making of grants in
suitable cases and to preserve structurally sound houses with a substantial
life by improving their amenities. As a result the Council decided to
publicise improvement. grants by posters and by exhibitions and to survey selected
roads with a view to encouraging owners to improve their properties. A house
to house survey has since been undertaken in selected roads and a mobile
exhibition unit was stationed in the Borough for a week.
During the year numerous enquiries were made by ratepayers and advice
was given. Although many did not avail themselves of the facilities offered,
a considerable amount of work has been carried out. The following tables show
the number of grants approved and payments made during the year;
Standard Grants.