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58
HOUSING CONDITIONS.
The major problem presented by present-day housing conditions in the Borough is the
overhaul and reconditioning in the light of modern standards of the many houses that are
unsuitable for demolition but do not, largely as a result of neglect and hard wear, and partly
as a result of the manner in which they are now let, conform to modern standards.
Slum conditions readily establish themselves in houses of this type and every effort
should be made to prevent an increase of such conditions in St. Pancras as a result of gravitation
from other parts of London as extensive demolition of slum property takes place.
The Local Authority possesses powers not only to prevent slumming but to improve
existing housing conditions. These powers are given under the following:—
(a) The overcrowding provisions of the Housing Act, 1936.
(b) The Bye-laws relating to Houses let in Lodgings, especially in regard to decontrolled
houses.
(c) Powers in relation to closure of underground rooms and parts of houses that are unfit
for human habitation.
(d) Reconditioning of houses not fit for human habitation when this can be done at
reasonable cost (Section 9, Housing Act, 1936).
(e) Demolition of such houses when reconditioning cannot be done at reasonable cost
(Section 12, Housing Act, 1936).
Facilities tor rehousing.
The London County Council provide facilities for rehousing accommodation upon
their estates for families displaced by Metropolitan Borough Councils under the provisions
of the Housing Act, 1936. This arrangement provides that Borough Councils who
wish to avail themselves of the facility shall pay £1 17s. 6d. per flat per annum for 40
years for each displaced family so accommodated. In the event of the family who are
rehoused vacating the accommodation, the Borough Council would still be liable to continue
payments for the remainder of the 40 years, but would have the right to nominate another
tenant from the Borough, provided this was done within seven days of receipt of notification
of vacancy from the County Council.