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PIGEON NUISANCE
A firm of pigeon catchers is employed under contract by the City Corporation whose policy
is not to exterminate all pigeons but to control their numbers to such proportions as will ensure
that the pleasure they give to residents and visitors is not out-weighed by the nuisance they cause.
During the year 2,900 pigeons were humanely trapped and killed as compared with 3,850 in 1962.
HOUSING
Housing Act, 1957
1. Number of houses which on inspection were considered to be unfit for human habitation:—
None
2. Number of houses in which defects were remedied in consequence of informal action by the
Local Authority or their Officers:—
Four
3. Number of representations made to the Local Authority with a view to (a) the serving of
notices requiring the execution of works or (b) the making of demolition or closing orders
(a) None
(b) None
4. Number of notices served during the execution of works: —
None
5. Number of houses which were rendered fit after service of formal notices :-
None
6. Number of demolition or closing orders made:—
None
7. Number of houses in respect of which an undertaking was accepted under subsection (4) of
section 16 of the Housing Act, 1957:-
None
8. Number of houses demolished:—
None
During the year 236 families were rehoused, leaving 531 families for whom accommodation
was required at the end of December 1963.
The Golden Lane Estate has been completed and the swimming pool, badminton court, tennis
courts and club rooms have provided extra recreational facilities which are enjoyed by the tenants
and, in the case of the swimming pool and badminton court, by many who are employed in the
City.
At Avondale Square, Old Kent Road, S.E.I, the 1st Stage of the development has been completed
and the 380 flats occupied. Work is well advanced on the 2nd Stage comprising 48 flats for
old people.
The modernisation of Avondale House was completed at the end of 1963.
Consultant Architects are now preparing plans for new flats as the first phase of replacement
of the sub-standard houses to the north and west of the Metropolitan Cattle Market in Islington,
and it is hoped to start work on this scheme in the near future.
At the Holloway Estate, Islington, demolition of the old houses continues in preparation for
further redevelopment.
The model Old People's accommodation at Isleden House (31 flats) erected by the City
Parochial Foundation and acquired by the Corporation, continues to be of interest to people in
this country and from overseas who are concerned with the housing and welfare of the elderly.
The ready availability of physical assistance, the provided mid-day meal with the other benefits
at Isleden House is reflected in the well-being of the elderly residents and their longevity, and
the infrequent use of the Sick Bay for their treatment. The Sick Bay continues to receive patients
from St. Bartholomew's Hospital (a total of approximately 904 having been admitted since 1954)
and elderly tenants from the Corporation's housing estates.
During the year work proceeded on the building which will contain the fire station and civil
defence centre in the Barbican Scheme. The diversion of the Metropolitan Railway between
Moorgate and Aldersgate Stations commenced in conjunction with work on 629 flats and houses.
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