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179
are given at the Tottenham Court Road Baths (which are
perhaps the most successful in London), while the private
bathing accommodation would be equal to either Bermondsey
or Rotherhithe, more than double that of Ladywell, and
nearly double that of Forest Hill.
Then, in regard to position, it must be borne in mind,
that the Birkbeck site, though situate in No. 5 Ward, is in
direct touch with the whole of No. 2 Ward, and lame
portions of Nos. 1 and 4 Wards; there are several large
factories within five or ten minutes' walk, employing more
than 2,000 hands.
We wish it to be clearly understood that we do not
consider that the work entrusted to us by the Vestry will
be complete until the whole of the Parish is provided with
adequate bathing and washing accommodation. Having,
however, a site in view which we consider most desirable
for one portion of the Parish, we feel that it is the safest
and wisest course to concentrate our attention upon the
district now under consideration, rather than have it divided
between other districts at the same time.
Trusting that the Vestry will now give the matter
their favourable consideration, and will support the Commissioners
in the proposition which they make, and not withhold
from one of the most densely populated and necessitous
portions of the Parish the boon which it was so recently
decided to bestow.
All of which is submitted.
JAMES T. SEARS,
Chairman of the Commissioners.