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30
A form of survey of housing- needs, under the Act, was
received by the Clerk in the early Autumn, with the request
that it should be completed and returned to the Housing
Commissioner, by the 3fst October.
In company with the Inspector of Nuisances I made a
somewhat hurried survey during the latter part of September
and 'the month of Uctober.
A list of insanitary houses was made setting out the
defects in each case.
No unhealthy areas were encountered in which Reconstruction
Schemes were deemed necessary.
Forty houses were returned under the heading "considerable
areas which contain a large proportion of seriously
defective houses but which can in the opinion of the Medical
Officer of Health be adequately dealt with otherwise than by
Improvement or Reconstruction Scheme; (a) by measures
for rendering the houses fit for human habitation by repairs
or renovation, and (b) where necessary by the demolition of
individual unfit houses."
Eighty-one houses were returned under the heading
"considerable areas which although in fair sanitary condition
nevertheless for one reason or another fall definitely below
the ultimate standard at which it is reasonable to aim, or contain
a large proportion of houses which fall below such standard."
These houses are under the observation of the Public
Health Committee and at opportune times will be dealt with
so as to have them either closed or repaired without hardship
to the occupants.
The Council's housing scheme under Sec. i of the Housing,
etc., Act, 1919, provides for the erection of 200 houses;
44 to comprise living-room, scullery and three bedrooms;
146 to comprise parlour, living-room, scullery and three bedrooms,
and 10 to comprise parlour ,living-room, scullery and
four bedrooms. Area of land acquired, 22^ acres. The scheme
is to be completed in 3 years.
The total nujnber of houses in the district is 4,195; number
for the working classes, 1,413; and new houses for the
working classes erected during the year, two.
Overcrowding, extent: number of houses intended for
one family which are now occupied by two or more families,
70.