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102
The 27 houses (all in one area), making up Fountain,
Francis, and Paved Courts, still remain empty, and
the site has not as yet been taken over by the Vestry as
an open space or playground for children (a suggestion made
by the Medical Officer of Health in last year's Report).
The subject has, however, received attention by the Vestry,
and it is to be hoped that shortly arrangements will be made
between the Vestry and the London County Council for the
securing of this open space in one of the most congested
and poorest parts of Lambeth Parish. The area in question
is about a quarter of an acre, and would make a useful
playground for children, thereby drawing them from the
crowded streets of that particular neighbourhood. The
land is copyhold, and could be purchased for the price of
£1000 for the freehold, so that, could the London County
Council be persuaded to contribute half the amount, the
investment would be a satisfactory one, whilst the good that
would accrue from such an open space (small though it is)
in such a crowded and congested district would be incalculable,
whether viewed from the standpoint of the benefitted
public health or the lessened danger to life and limb
of the children who would play therein, instead of in the
crowded thoroughfares. It must not be forgotten that the
inhabitants of that particular district have themselves
memorialised the Vestry, calling upon them to secure the
site as an open space ; and local feeling in a matter of this
kind deserves serious attention and consideration. The
Vestry would be well advised to secure this open space at
once.
In only 4 cases was it found necessary to take proceedings
before the Magistrate—the other cases being
settled voluntarily.