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dwellings to be let at a weekly rent of 1s. 6d. to 3s. maximum
per room. The matter had not assumed a definite
shape at the close of the year.
Building
Applications.
It is due to observe that, in one respect, the
London County Council have shown consideration
in the manner in which the opinion of the local
authorities is regarded, with respect to building applications,
as compared with the Metropolitan Board of Works.
Following the custom established by the latter body, the
Council has continued to transmit applications made under
the Building Acts to the local authorities affected, in order
that opportunity might be given them for making observations
thereon. Under the Metropolitan Board the Vestry
had frequently to complain that their suggestions were
ignored, applications being refused where the Vestry saw
no reason for opposition, while others were granted regard,
less of the strong objection of the Vestry. The Council
have, however, uniformly treated this consultation of the
Vestry's wishes as something more than an empty formality.
In no instance during the year have the Council acceded
to an application where the Vestry found reason to intimate
their disapproval.
STREET IMPROVEMENTS.
Among the matters for which Westminster is indebted to
the late Metropolitan Board of Works is that of contributions
towards the cost of local improvements and streetwidenings
carried out by the Vestry. The contributions
received by the parish from the late Board amounted to
£11,823; and it was hoped that the subject would have
been dealt with by the new authority in the same broad and
considerate spirit. A complete reversal of policy, however,
was soon manifested upon the Council assuming jurisdiction.
In June, 1889, a memorial, with an accompanying plan,
was presented to the Council by a deputation, urging the