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101
The dust-bins, which were of the ordinary defective and makeshift
construction, were generally very dilapidated and foul; they
have all been swept away, and three public receptacles of ray
improved construction have been provided: this is a great benefit,
as it obviates the necessity for storing refuse in small confined
yards.
The ground flooring rested upon the earth, and was generally
much worn and broken. It was all removed, the ground dug out,
and substantial new floors laid, and a good space under the
floors provided to secure ventilation.
The dilapidated hearth stones were all removed, and new ones
of concrete provided, extending from the front to the back walls,
and into the cupboards by the side of the chimney breasts. The
solidness and cleanliness of this arrangement is highly appreciated
by the tenants, who know the usual foul condition of such cupboards,
with badly-fitted floor boarding, and odours rising from the earth.
The defective flooring of the back additions has all been
removed, and smooth, solid concrete floors provided throughout.
The back additions of the ten houses on the west side of New
Street were very small and dilapidated. They were all demolished,
and re-built on my suggestion; and a waste piece of each yard
added in, thereby enlarging the rooms by 4 feet.
The wood cills of the back and front doorways were much
worn and dilapidated, and therefore offered but little obstacle to
water passing under or over them into the houses; they have all
been removed, and solid and neatly-shaped concrete cills 18-inch
wide have been substituted.
The provision of these cills not only prevent dampness, they
are noticeable for another effect. With few exceptions the cills,
and the concrete floors of the w.c's also, are whitened every day
by the tenants; and this external show of cleanliness is quite
obviously operating on the habits of the people, and the interiors of
their houses. The poor people who formerly were unable to make
their cottages look decent are now able to do so, and they take
pride in keeping their homes clean and respectable.