View report page

39
In considering a scheme of improvement or conversion submitted for
grant, only one question may properly be asked,, namely, whether it will
produce a satisfactory modernised dwelling complying with the statutory
conditions and the specified requirements.

The second method is to apply for standard grants, which were
introduced by the House Purchase & Housing Act, 1959. The Act sets up a new
system of standard grants to supplement the present system of improvement
grants paid at the discretion of the local authority. These standard grants
are payable only in respect of the provision of specified standard amenities
and on the expenditure actually incurred for this purpose. Provided certain
conditions are satisfied, the owner of the property can claim the grant as of
right.
There are five standard amenities (as shown below) eligible for
standard grant, which is one-half of the cost shown to have been incurred in
executing the works involved, subject to a maximum payment of £350.
(a) A fixed bath or show in a bathroom
(b) A wash-hand basin
(c) A hot water supply
(d) A water closet for the dwelling
(e) Satisfactory facilities for storing food
During 1964, seven applications for standard grants were granted
in respect of individual premises and a total payment of £630 was authorised.
ARTIFICIAL LIGHTING OF COMMON STAIRCASES IN TENEMENT HOUSES AND FLATS
Council Byelaws relating to artificial lighting of common staircases
in tenement houses and flats came into operation on 11th March, 1958. The
principal Byelaw reads as followss-
" The occupier of every tenement house to which these Byelaws
apply and the owner of every block of flats shall provide adequate
artificial lighting for all common staircases
(a) from half an hour before sunset until 12 o'clock
midnight;
(b) for one hour before sunrise during the months of
October9 November, December, January, February and
March, and
(c) at other times as and when necessary if adequate
means of natural lighting are not provided. "
During 1964, formal notices were served in 5 cases, requiring
compliance with these Byelaws.
CERTIFICATES OF DISREPAIR IN RELATION TO IWELLING HOUSES
The Council's duty to issue certificates of disrepair in respect
of "rent controlled" dwelling houses, not reasonably suitable for occupation,
is governed by the Rent Act, 1957.