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LICENSING ACT, 1961
Applications for registration of clubs under the Licensing Act 1961 are dealt with by a
magistrates' court, copies of the applications being sent to the Council for any observations
they may wish to make. Public health inspectors visit the premises to report on their
suitability as regards the requirements of public health and food and drugs legislation. Premises
inspected and reported on during the year numbered 8.
LODGING HOUSES-COMMON
There are four licensed common lodging houses in the borough, providing accommodation for
944 persons as follows:-
Salvation Army Hostel, Garford Street 218 Men
Salvation Army Women's Hostel, Hopetown Street 228 Women
Salvation Army Hostel, 177 Whitechapel Road 323 Men
Church Army Hostel, 10/22 Johnson Street 175 Men
The premises are inspected regularly including visits made at night (7 this year) to ensure
compliance with the byelaws relating thereto.
The licensed number in respect of the Garford Street Hostel was reduced during the year
from 223 to 218.
The Salvation Army completed the construction of a new hostel in Whitechapel Road adjoining
their common lodging house.' Known as "Booth House" the hostel, which cost £300,000 was opened
by H. M. the Queen on 27th March, and provides accommodation for 200 men and permanent
residential accommodation for 60 elderly men.
LODGING HOUSES-SEAMEN
Three such premises in the borough provide accommodation for 545 seamen as follows:-
Empire Memorial Hostel, 747 Commercial Road 115 Seamen
Queen Victoria Seamen's Home, 121/123 East India Dock Road 187 Seamen
Sailors' Home, Dock Street 243 Seamen
Regular inspections are carried out at these premises, including visits at night.
MORTUARY SERVICE
The Council's mortuary is situated in Cottage Street, Poplar High Street, and adjoins the
coroner's court. The mortuary has accommodation for 15 bodies and serves the Poplar and Stepney
areas. Improvements were carried out to the premises this year including the provision of new
refrigerating plant and cabinets and laying of terrazzo floor.
Prior to the formation of the borough, Bethnal Green Council had an arrangement with
Hackney Council for the use of the letter's mortuary, which arrangement continues in respect of
mortuary accommodation for that part of the borough, the cost being shared on a population basis.
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