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42
St. George, Hanover Square, obtained an interview with the
then engineer of the Metropolitan Board (Sir Joseph
Bazalgette), who explained that the failure of the new relief
sewer was only temporary, being attributable to a mishap
shortly after the sewer was brought into use; and the
deputation were assured of his confidence "that upon the
"completion of certain alterations, then in hand, the sewer
"would amply meet the requirements of the surrounding
"districts." This was in November of 1886, when, partly
in reliance upon the engineer's assurance and partly in
order that the local sewerage system might be watched upon
the occurrence of the next heavy rain-fall at the time of
high tide, action was suspended. In December of 1887,
the recurrence of the overflows became more frequent,
and the area affected more extensive than previously,
in consequence of which the Central Board were once
more requested to provide a remedy. In 1887-8,
"history repeated itself further floodings, renewed
"complaints, fresh representations to the Metropolitan Board
"of Works, and no steps taken to effect a remedy."
In September, and again in November, of 1888, further
letters were addressed to the Board; and in April, 1889,
the Vestry requested the London County Council, in consequence
of the revival of local remonstrances, to adopt
remedial measures without loss of time. Numerous letters
of complaint from ratepayers were from time to time
during the period to which this report specially applies,
forwarded on to the Council, and on the 10th July, a deputation,
consisting of Messrs. J. Lane, C. C. Piper, S. H.
Cohen, J. Margrie, and Thos. Horn, was appointed to present
the following Memorial, approved by the Vestry on
the 24th July: —
To the Honourable the Council of the Administrative
County of London.
The MEMORIAL of the United Vestry of the Parishes of
St. Margaret and St. John the Evangelist, Westminster.