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94
The self-contained flats produce a higher rent and the conditions are
usually unexceptionable. The other tenement dwellings in these buildings
are, in many instances, not very satisfactory ; having all the defects
found in the lower grade houses let wholly in tenements.
Flats Over Garages, Mews, etc.
On the whole, conditions can be described as more or less satisfactory
in this type of dwelling.
The principal defect found to exist in the least satisfactory is the
restriction of light and free circulation of air. Dwellings in this category
in Trinity Mews were the subject of closure largely on account of this
defect.
A marked change in the occupation of dwellings over mews, etc., has
been observed during recent years. When working class families move
out, particularly in certain districts, the premises are often re-conditioned
and re-let at rentals well beyond the means of working-class families.
Cottage Type.
This type of dwelling is rapidly disappearing from the City. Within
the past few years over 300 of such dwellings have disappeared owing to
the action taken by the City Council in various ways—for example Millbank
Improvement Scheme, Clearance Orders or by negotiation with owners.

Sooner or later other similar vestiges of Westminster of the 'fifties
of last century will disappear. There are still a few closes and alleys
of small cottages fringing on the great houses of Belgravia. Almost all
have a patch of garden and some even a few square yards of lawn.
There is one such oasis not far from what was once the leafy garden of
St. Michael's vicarage. In summer there are flowers and quietness but
in winter the prospect is less inviting; perhaps dampness and mustiness
indoors. They are just country cottages, although many years have