London's Pulse: Medical Officer of Health reports 1848-1972

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Shoreditch 1891

[Report of the Medical Officer of Health for Shoreditch, Parish of St. Leonard]

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39
west .ingles of the Great Hall, directly into the open areas each side of
the Town Hall buildings.
Thus it will be seen that spacious fireproof exits from the floor of the
Hall will be provided, one at each of its four angles, and obviously in the
most economical manner.
The other requirements of the London County Council refer to details
of door openings, fastenings, and the like, and also to two fire hydrants,
but all these can be readily complied with.
I have the pleasure to report that the plans and proposals above
described, and shewn on the plans and sections I send herewith, have been
submitted to and carefully examined by the Superintending Architect, and
he will feel able to recommend that they be accepted (subject to minor
details) by the London County Council.
I have as yet made no estimate of the cost of the works above
proposed, but I think it will be obvious, on comparing them with the
former proposals, that they must be of less cost, while incidentally some
advantages are obtained which the former plans did not afford.
At the first meeting I had with the Committee, a question was
mooted as to the stability of the roof over the Great Hall. I have had
it most carefully examined, and am glad to report that I find it in
excellent condition and perfectly stable.
Waiting your further instructions,
I remain, Gentlemen,
Your obedient servant,
CHARLES BARRY, Architect."
This report came before the Vestry on the 19th October, 1891, when it was
resolved—
i
"That the plans of Mr. Barry and his report be approved, and that
the Clerk be authorised to sign the undertaking required by the London
County Council to carry out the work proposed therein."
1 accordingly signed the necessary undertaking, and the license was granted
by the Council, but it was ordered to be retained in their Clerk's office until the
works had been carried out.
On the 22nd December, 1891, the Vestry resolved—" That Mr. Barry be
employed as architect to carry out the alterations," and referred it to the Town
Hall Committee to make arrangements to carry out the work.