1959-1960 — Page 22

value and continue to be used for the purposes for which the accom- modation was provided.

52. High density development inevitably brings problems to those concerned that the estates shall at all times present an attractive appearance, The Authority arranges for the collection of refuse from individual flats either by direct labour or through a contractor and arranges for the sweeping of corridors and staircases, cleaning of surface channels, and cultivation of gardens and the flower boxes which are pleasant feature of the common parts of estates.

Community Development

53. The North Point Estate Residents' Association has been most helpful in promoting understanding between the Authority and its tenants, and there is no doubt that such an association properly organized can help the management considerably in dealing with problems of common interest.

54. At Sai Wan Estate the Boys' and Girls' Clubs Association have very active clubs for children and young people on the estate and in a building provided by the Authority in the centre of the estate also run a children's library which is particularly well patronized during the school holidays.

Maintenance

55. Liaison is maintained with the Housing Architect who advises on matters of structural concern, and close co-operation exists to make use of experience gained in matters of design and material when new estates are being designed. A Maintenance Officer, working with the Housing Manager and Housing Assistants, deals with teachnical items which are outside the competence of unqualified housing assistants. A maintenance contract for the regular inspection and servicing of lifts is in force and when necessary the Authority's caretakers deal with emergencies. It is also the duty of caretakers to supervise the work of porters or cleaners, and to patrol the estate in order to control noise and ensure that no unnecessary damage is caused to the property.

BUILDING PROGRAMME

56. There has always existed a shortage of suitable building sites, which do not involve expensive and prolonged site formation, within the urban area, where most of the people to be re-housed must live, in order to be near their places of livelihood. This shortage is now becom-

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