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orders and registration schemes. A satisfactory outcome in relation to some of
the actions is not easy to obtain, especially the provision of additional amenities
and control of occupation, but fortunately, means of escape from fire, can fairly
readily be achieved and much has been done in this respect.
(d) Improvements to Dwellings
These can be accomplished in one of two ways. The first by the use of the grant
schemes, which as amended by the HousingAct, 1969, provide strong incentives
to owners of properties who wish to convert their houses to self-contained flats
or to improve and repair individual dwellings. Maximum publicity and assistance,
essential to success, is given to people concerned.
The second method is by the use of the compulsory power given to the Council
by Section 19 of the Housing Act, 1964. This is initiated by a tenant making a
request to the Council for improvements and followed by the service of a notice
on the landlord. In the event of non-compliance with a notice the Council can
have the work carried out and the cost charged to the owner.
The compulsory powers contained in the Housing Act, 1964, in conjunction
with improvement areas have been repealed by the Housing Act, 1969, which
now provides for the establishment of general improvement areas. The improvement
of the dwellings and also of the environment of an area is intended to be
achieved mainly by voluntary co-operation between the Council and persons concerned.
The compulsory power given by Section 19 of the Housing Act, 1964,
for individual dwellings, already mentioned above, will be available and other
Housing Act power to deal with unsatisfactory living conditions can be used in
general improvement areas. In fact, the establishment of these areas will provide
the department with the opportunity to deal with conditions by using the many
powers and incentives available in a concentrated way. Several areas suitable for
this treatment have been identified and detailed surveys in relation to a few have
been carried out.
(e) Council Loans for House Purchase
Properties which were the subject of applications to the Council for mortgages
were surveyed and reported on by the health inspectors in relation to repairs,
amenities, occupation and necessary fire precautions. The requirements as to
these matters were made a condition of any loan offered. Specifications submitted
by mortgagors were checked for approval and the work carried out was
supervised prior to certification to the Borough Treasurer.
As in previous years, the conditions imposed as to the provision of amenities
gave rise to many improvement grant applications.
The following is a summary of action in relation to the department's housing
functions*—