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The premises in this case consisted of a front and back room in a basement,
both of which, despite notice and warning, were habitually used as sleeping rooms.
Almost immediately after the closing orders were made, occupation of the rooms
was discontinued.
Demolition Orders. —The question of making a demolition order came before
the Public Health Committee in respect of 6 premises. In 6 cases the orders were
made and the premises demolished. The demolition in 3 instances was carried out
by the Borough Council, and in the remainder by the owners.
In respect of 8 premises, for various reasons, no orders were made. In 6 the
question was adjourned sine die after the committee was satisfied that a scheme
embracing the houses was in contemplation, and that the premises would be so
treated in the meantime that no nuisance would occur. In 1 case at the time of the
consideration of the demolition order, the owners undertook to carry out such
alterations as would render the premises fit for habitation, and in another the order
was held over to allow of negotiations for the sale of the site to proceed.
Appeals.-During the year two appeals against closing orders were heard by the
Local Government Board, the first in respect of certain flats, Nos. 1, 2, 7, 8, 13 and
14, Dorset Buildings, New Street Mews, and the other with regard to Nos. 9 and 16,
Montagu Mews South.
The appeal in the Dorset Buildings case was heard in January and was dismissed.
Shortly afterwards the owners submitted a scheme for altering the premises, which
was approved by the Public Health Committee, and when the work was completed
the closing orders were withdrawn.
In the case of the premises 9 and 16, Montagu Mews South, the hearing of the
appeal by the Local Government Board took place in April. The premises in this
instance were the subject of a closing order by the Public Health Committee under
Section 43 of the Housing, Town Planning, &c., Act, 1909, which forbids the
erection of back-to-back dwellings, and the Board instead of giving a decision on
the appeal stated a case for the High Court asking for guidance on two points, viz.,
as to whether or not the premises were back-to-back, and if, having been
erected for chauffeurs, they were intended for occupation by members of the
working classes.
The case had not been heard when the year closed.
The following table contains a summary of the work done to December 31st,
1914, under sections 17 and 18 of the Act in relation to closing and demolition
orders: