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132
The entrances to the first class baths are in Great Smith Street,
and those to the second class baths in St. Ann's Street. Each
department having its separate entrance, one pay box serving in
both instances.
The Laundry department, which is entered from St. Ann's Street,
has accommodation for 92 washers, with a drying house for each
person. An ironing room is adjoining, with four mangles, ironing
stove, and ironing tables, having a separate exit into St. Ann's
Street.
It is proposed to utilize the present boilers, and provide additional
power.
The present chimney shaft, which is badly erected, and is in a
dangerous condition, it is proposed to re-erect upon improved
principles, having internal cylinders, surrounded by ventilating
fines, which will act as upcast ventilators, thus carrying off all
steam and vapours.
The whole of the swimming baths, slipper baths, and laundry
will have top lights, and perfect ventilation, which is so essential,
will be so ensured.
The two buildings, though conjoined, are perfectly distinct, there
being no communication between them. The party walls are
carried up so as to prevent any annoyance arising.
Board Room accommodation is provided in both establishments,
together with apartments for Librarian and Caretakers.
The basements in both buildings are well lighted and ventilated,
and afford good storage and other accommodation, together with
lavatories; the latter are also provided for each department
throughout.
The elevation is of a suitable character, and appropriate for the
purpose intended. This building, being set back, will be the first
step in forming an improvement in Great Smith Street, which will
eventually become one of the leading arteries of the City, and will
tend to the further development of this portion of the parish.
I have the honour to be, Gentlemen,
Your obedient servant,
FBAS. J. SMITH.
Having regard to the care and completeness with which the
details and provisions of the scheme and plan have been studied
by the two Commissions, and concurring with them in the
desirability of erecting the two buildings on adjoining sites, so
as to form practically one block,
The Committee unanimously recommend that the Vestry
approve the plans of the proposed new Public Library,
and Public Baths and Wash-houses now submitted, and
sanction and allow the expenditure proposed, to the extent
of £12,000 as regards the Free Public Library, and
to the extent of £20,000 as regards the Public Baths and
Wash-houses.