Sessional_Paper_1898 — Page 535

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further area to the city; and if the further resumption of insanitary properties is effected, by degrees, it seemed doubtful if any exceptional provision will be required for housing the persons disturbed.

In the case of the villages other sites might be allotted to the occupants of insanit- ary dwellings on which they can erect sanitary dwellings prior to being disturbed,

27. The capital required for the resumption and subsequent improvement of pro- perties must at the present time be more or less a subject of speculation. Before any definite estimate can be given, complete plans and other information must be prepared in connection with the areas proposed to be resumed and the method of resumption and valuation decided upon.

28. The experience gained in England in connection with the resumption of insanitary areas does not appear to favour the idea that such resumptions are likely to prove financially a success, but that as far as possible they should be avoided except in such cases as those in which a material public advantage can be gained.

29. During recent years various blocks of model dwellings have been erected by corporations and companies, but a reasonable return on the expenditure has only been effected by constructing large blocks of very lofty buildings and the result has not been satisfactory, leading to considerable surface-crowding,

In providing accommodation for the "working classes" we submit the following particulars as deserving of special attention:-

Healthiness of site.

Open surroundings and wide impervious areas.

Prevention of fire and facilities for escape.

No basement or cellars.

Lighting, ventilation and drainage.

Arrangement of kitchens, bathrooms and latrines.

We have the honour to be,

Sir,

Your most obedient Servants,

A. SETH, ESQ.,

Secretary,

Insanitary Properties Commission.

FRANCIS A. COOPER,

Director of Public Works.

FRANCIS W. CLARK,

Medical Officer of Health.