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rental of £1,448 per annum. The losses in respect of empties and irrecoverables
are expected to be practically nil. The plans of these houses do not
commend themselves to me.
In April, Messrs. Hodden & Stoughton published at one shilling the
urban report of the Land Inquiry Committee appointed by the Chancellor of
the Exchequer (Mr. Lloyd George) in 1912. Considerations of space prevent
me quoting from it, but I strongly recommend my readers to obtain and read
a copy.
VACANT BUILDING PLOTS.
Far too many exist in Edmonton, especially corner sites. The Finance
Committee recommended that the Council should take possession of those to
which the ownership was undiscoverable and let them for allotments or other
purposes on short tenancies, the tenants to erect any necessary fencing. On
these lands monies are due to the Council for street expenses. As far back
as June 10th, 1913, the Council resolved that proceedings be and are hereby
authorised to be taken before the expiration of six months by summons in
Petty Sessions, or by action in the County Court, for recovery of any instalment
and interest at 4 per cent, per annum, in respect of private street works which
may be in arrear.
In January, the Architect presented two reports to the Allotments Committee,
who in March recommended that "where advisable, all the vacant
pieces of land on which apportionments are outstanding and where fencing is
required, be let on yearly tenancies at a nominal rental of 1s. per annum, provided
the tenants are prepared to erect the fencing."
My department takes a great interest in these lands, as they are a source
of danger to the public health. When not occupied by muddy stagnant pools
they are made a deposit ground by the neighbouring children and vagrants for
offensive matter, or used as a sorting office by ragpickers. If there are no legal
difficulties, I would suggest that after due advertisement, such sites be sold by
the Council to the highest bidde on condition that the necessary fencing is
erected and maintained in good order.
ACTION UNDER HOUSING AND TOWN PLANNING
ACT, 1909.
In February, Brettenham Road, Nos. 303-5-7-9-11-21-35, were dealt with
under Section 15 (3) of the Act, and 21 days' notice given to the owners to
carry out the work necessary to make the houses fit. These houses then changed
ownership, and the new owners were granted two months from the 24th April
to comply with the notices. This they did.