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31
represent "homes" to the families who by chance or circumstances
have to occupy them, not just "units of accommodation". Domestic
happiness and contentment of mind are associated with good housing
conditions, and this is a factor of particular importance when
considering the problems of immigrant families, so many of whom
have a feeling of insecurity in their new surroundings. This feeling
is encouraged when families are "living in each other's pockets" in
cramped over-crowded houses with communal activities.
However, it is true that a local authority now has legal powers
to deal effectively with the worst cases of multi-occupation including
the power to control a house promptly where it has become
apparent that the safety, welfare or health of the occupants are
in jeopardy.
These are the "Control Order" powers I have already referred
to. It is a drastic step and is intended obviously to be used with
discretion in selected cases where other sections of the Housing
Acts would not provide a quick or effective remedy.
The three cases dealt with by the Council so far have illustrated
clearly the severe administrative burden entailed, but have also
shown how effective the powers can be when undertaken in those
cases calling for swift action.
The four Housing teams referred to in my 1963 report have
operated in four selected areas of the Borough as follows: —
Area 1 is centred around St. Stephen's Gardens, which had received
somewhat exaggerated publicity and had been associated
with "Rachmanism". As a first priority, the Council
had instructed that a "house to house" survey of St.
Stephen's Gardens be carried out and as a result Management
Orders and Section 19 (Limits) be applied where
indicated.
Area 2 includes Ashmore, Portnall and Bravington Roads in North
Paddington. These are smaller houses by comparison and
are mainly multi-racially occupied. Again, Management
Orders and Limits have been made and a large number of
these houses have been purchased for the occupation of
the owner and his family with the assistance of a Council
loan. It is the Inspector's aim, in this area in particular,
to discuss the position first of all with the owner to endeavour
to achieve in suitable houses a thoroughgoing
conversion that will attract an improvement grant.
Area 3 is bounded by Shirland Road, Chippenham Road, Harrow
Road and Sutherland Avenue. The procedure for inspection
and subsequent action is as Area 2, although the
properties, particularly in Sutherland Avenue, are larger.
Area 4 consists of certain selected roads in the Westbourne Ward.
There are indications that formal action may be the rule
rather than the exception although an initial approach to
the owner is always made.
I also submit a statistical summary of the work carried out by
the Inspectors during the year.