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respect to several houses in the district, and in one
instance it became necessary to apply to the Police
Magistrate owing to the Board's notice not having
been complied with in connection with two houses in
Devonshire Road, Chiswick, which I found in a
dilapidated and dangerous condition and practically
uninhabitable, the flooring, staircases, walls, and
ceilings being dirty and defective. On the summons
being heard the owner undertook to carry out the
necessary repairs, which have since been done.
I was compelled to condemn a third house in
Devonshire Road in consequence of its insanitary
condition from defective drainage and also a deficiency
of air space. The Surveyor in his report on these
premises recommended the demolition of a building in
the rear together with the reconstruction of the
drains. The owner has since carried out the work in
a satisfactory manner.
I have also had occasion to report on a block of
small houses known as Blenheim Steps, Windmill
Lane, which I found very damp and unhealthy, the
result partly of defective guttering and from the fact
of their being several feet below the ground level;
both light and ventilation are insufficient and in their
present condition they are practically unfit for habitation.
They could, however, be greatly improved by
carrying out the recommendations of your Surveyor;
the necessary notices have been served for this
purpose.
With reference to the contemplated improvements
in Essex Place, suggested by a member of your
Council, I consider the scheme an admirable one
and should much like to see it extended to some other
parts of the district, there being a certain number of