Dangerous Buildings
95. As a result of fires and collapses a number of buildings were rendered dangerous to such an extent that seven were closed by means of Closure Orders obtained from a Magistrate by the Building Authority. An unusually bad fire destroyed two houses in Shanghai Street, and four other houses seriously affected by the fire had to be demolished immediately afterwards, leaving about 600 people homeless.
Inspections on behalf of other Government Departments
96. As in previous years inspections were made on behalf of the Police (as Licensing Authority) of places of public entertainment and printing establishments and on behalf of the Education Department in connexion with the registration of schools.
Unauthorized Structures
97. It was possible to devote a little more time to unauthorized structures, and earlier action by owners in dealing with notices has resulted. In cases where owners have proved unco-operative the Architectural Office has assisted by carrying out the necessary works on behalf of the Building Authority.
General
98. The Kowloon branch office of the Buildings Ordinance Office opened on the 2nd January, 1958, and was well established by the beginning of the financial year 1958/59. The division of the office into two sections has made liaison less easy and has caused some inconvenience to private architects, most of whom have their offices in Victoria. On the other hand, the provision of an office on the mainland has made for more frequent visits to building sites by the surveyors, who are now within easy reach of their districts.
99. With staff increases in the Buildings Ordinance Office it became possible to increase site inspections during the construction of buildings, and an improvement in the quality of workmanship, materials and general construction at building sites has resulted. Although it can by no means be said that perfection has been reached, it is hoped that as staff permits an even higher standard of construction will be obtained in the future.
100. The figures set out below give further information on the work of the office in its various functions.
101. 1,210 new buildings were completed during the year of which 967 were for domestic use.
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