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46
In this regard it is important for those erecting new houses to
decide how far it is wise to commit themselves to one or another
of the alternative methods of heating.
Whilst gas and electricity have advantages for temporary
heating and local application, the general demand in future for
continuous heating of rooms will be some form of improved smokeless
fuel.
The building of all gas or all electric houses is to be seriously
deplored.
The omission to provide flues to carry off the products of
combustion, is unwise, and further, the absence of such flues
leaves much to be desired in the matter of ventilation.
In connection with gas heaters, particularly where it is imperative
for safety that some form of direct outlet or flue should be
provided, the sensible thing would be to build the flue so that it
would equally well serve a coal fire.
The year 1929 saw the erection of the first house on the Gale
Street Section of the London County Council Estate, and the
provision of a further 206 houses by the Barking Council. There
was also an extension in the provision of houses for owner-occupiers
to the extent of 237 erected.
Whilst the erection of 206 houses by the Local Authority meant
relief to many poor families living in overcrowded conditions, it
was far from dealing adequately with the full situation.
It is impossible, without taking a special census of the district,
to estimate accurately the extent of overcrowding existing at the
present time, but that it is extensive is borne out by information
resulting from inspections by health officials and by receipt of
complaints.
The major reason for the overcrowding is the total absence in
the district of accommodation for the poorer of the working classes,
such as two or three-room tenements.