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46
HOUSING CONDITIONS.
Two events of importance occurred during the year, viz., the
rehousing of the tenants from the Parsons Row area, and the
commencement of building operations in connection with the 198
houses to be erected as the first section of the Upney estate.
In regard to the rehousing of displaced tenants from the
condemned area it was highly gratifying to find every one of them
so eager to move into the new accommodation provided, as this has
not been the happy experience of every Local Authority.
It was not possible to proceed with the clearance scheme
until some fresh accommodation was available for use as a housing
decant. Even when provided, it frequently happens that the new
accommodation is of such a character that the persons moved
from slum property are incapable of taking advantage of it and
paying the normal rent.
To avoid this the Council was at pains to design such
accommodation as would meet the needs of the incoming tenants
in every respect,- and what is equally important, was persistent in a
demand for a rent such tenants could afford to pay—hence the
alacrity to change.
All this involved considerable time. Further, clearance could
only be made in sections and this factor has materially hindered
the progress of the rehousing.
Prior to the occupation of the new houses, the belongings
of the proposed tenants were disinfested, and in some cases
destroyed, before occupation was allowed. The wisdom of this
precaution was proved by an inspection of the premises after an
interval of nine months, when no instance of vermin infestation
was discovered.
The reaction to their improved conditions by 90 per cent., of
the residents has fully justified the Council in its action.