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62
SECTION IV.
HOUSING ACCOMMODATION.
The Census returns show that on April 2nd, 1911, there were 11,023
dwellings (12,491 separate occupiers), 763 unoccupied, and 27 in the course of
erection in the district. During 1913 the Alcazar cinematograph and winter
gardens was opened on 28th June; it was erected on the site of Eagle House where
future Lord Mayors of London and M.P.'s were educated.
Building By-laws. The Council's "By-laws with respect to the New
Streets and Buildings" were revised in 1904, and sealed by the Local Government
Board on the 8th June, 1904.
Any contraventions of By-law 113 are reported to the Plans Committee by
the Architect, and all correspondence and particulars connected with the
contraventions are laid before them. The Committee then decide whether they
shall recommend to the Council the prosecution of the offenders. During
1913 the Architect reported one contravention, but no legal action was taken
thereon. No prosecutions have taken place since 1907.
On September 25th, 1912, a letter of 29th August, 1912, from the Local
Government Board, was submitted to the Plans Committee, which suggested
the modification of existing by-laws with reference to buildings in re-inforced
concrete, etc., in order to make provision for the new methods of building; a
copy of the model by-laws was enclosed. In the Council's minutes of 24th
June, 1913, are printed clauses which our Engineer and Architect recommend
be added to our present by-laws. This left the important question of
paving round a stable still unsettled. In the minutes of September 9th, it is
reported that these two officers had conferred with the Local Government
Board officials, with the result that the Council were advised to further consider
the matter with a view to adopting an amended form of building by-laws in
their entirety, and annulling altogether the existing by-laws.
Housing Inspector. Mr. A. E. Day began his important duties on
May 1st, 1912. He was succeeded by Mr. H. K. Nixon on the 17th March,
1913. As I have said in former years, there is plenty of work in this district
for an industrious and conscientious Fourth Male Inspector, and the appointment
of such a man will lead to a great improvement in the housing conditions
of Edmonton.