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Turning to how the standards might be applied the Committee
concluded that in general, all dwellings which are expected to
remain in use for at least 25 years should be brought up to the
full standard for a satisfactory dwelling. If they are to
remain in use for at least 15 years the five point scale would
be appropriate and those which are expected to remain in use for
7 to 15 years should be improved to the three point scale.
The minimum standard by whioh houses are judged to be unfit
and if so whether they should be demolished or repaired was also
considered and the recommendation is a revised minimum standard
of fitness.
There are also recommendations regarding simplification of
procedure in dealing with improvement grants.
Legislation whioh might implement the recommendations is
awaited.
Housing Surveys.
Ministry of Housing and Local Government.
Following a recommendation contained in the Report of the
Central Housing Advisory Committee (The Dennington Report) the
Minister of Housing and Local Government carried out a survey on
a random sample basis of some 6,000 dwellings spread over 250
Local Authority areas. This Borough was included in the sample
and the Department assisted by making available an officer to
accompany the inspector (a public health inspector seconded to the
Ministry for the purpose) to introduce him and generally speed the
completion of the survey.
The Greater London Council.
Chiefly for the purpose of its development plan, the Greater
London Council initiated through the London Boroughs a Condition
of Dwellings and Households Survey which was carried out during the
year.
Part I of the survey, that of dwellings to establish the useful
future life of the various parts of the stock of dwellings and whether
they are capable of improvement or conversion at reasonable cost, was
completed by the end of July. Approximately 2,110 dwellings were
surveyed by staff of the Borough Planning Officer and an assessment
of useful life in doubtful cases and the improvement or conversion of
properties and at what cost was referred to the Public Health Inspectors
who dealt with 228 dwellings in this connection. The results of the
survey are now being studied.