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| The Rushden Echo & Argus, 10th October 1930, transcribed by Jim Hollis |
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Rushden Urban Council Meeting
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Irchester Road Improvement Starting |
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There were present at the usual meeting of the Rushden Urban Council on Wednesday Messrs. G. W. Coles, J.P. (Chairman), L. Perkins, M.B.F., B.Sc. (vice chairman), Tom Wilmott, T. F. B. Newberry, J. Roe, A. Allebone, C.C., F. Green, C. Claridge, Dr. G. Greenfield, M.D., F. Knight, J.P., J. Allen, T. Swindell, A Wilmott, J. Spencer, J.P., J. Hornsby, and J. T. Richardson, with the Clerk (Mr. G. S. Mason), the Surveyor (Mr. J. W. Lloyd), and the Sanitary Inspector (Mr. F. S. F. Piper).
Alderman C. W. Horrell sent an apology for his inability to attend. The Housing Committee reported that in one case of rent arrears, the tenant having been previously warned, it was resolved that notice to quit be at once served. It was resolved to issue a summons against a late tenant who had left the town owing £2 4s. 3d. With regard to other cases the Clerk was instructed to inform the tenants that unless the arrears were quickly paid their tenancies would be terminated. The committee recommended the Council that the new road leading from Purvis-road to Westfield Avenue, be named Tennyson-road. The Committee had considered the question of the provision of further houses and agreed to recommend the Council to instruct the Surveyor to prepare plans for a further 16 houses on the Tennyson-road, four of the parlour type and 12 of the non-parlour type, for submission to the Ministry of Health. The Surveyor submitted a plan of a proposed layout in respect of the vacant piece of land on the Irchester-road. The committee considered the proposal but before making a recommendation decided to view the site. It was reported that several applications were received from the tenants in Kings-road for permission to install electric fittings in their respective houses. The committee agreed to accede to the applications, subject to the Council being under no obligation whatever with regard thereto. Presenting the above report, Mr. Perkins said he hoped that some of the people in arrears of rent would pay up. The committee would not be hard on those whose arrears were the result of sickness or unemployment. It was those who put off paying as long as possible who were the trouble. On the subject of the suggested naming of the new street, he said that the street had taken a good deal of their money and it had not given much in return, and some had thought that it should be called “Aberdeen Avenue!” The committee had thought that Tennyson-road would be a good name to use. Dr. Greenfield asked whether the committee when considering names of future streets, would perpetuate some of the old names of the town that had existed before the time of the present generation. He thought that “Pyghtles Terrace” was one of the nicest names they had got. There were other names that might be used for roads and streets. Mr. Perkins : I think it can be done. Mr. Allebone : The place where “Tennyson-road” is made was called “Ship-pen!” On the subject of the proposed new houses, Mr. Perkins said that there was a big demand for the non-parlour type houses. The committee suggested that of 16 to be erected four only be of the parlour type. Mr. Roe : Will you be able to get some more houses on Tennyson-road. Mr. Perkins : Yes, and there is a possibility of having shops if there is a demand. In reference to the empty place on the estate previously referred to, Mr. Perkins said it was not very pleasing to look at. The committee had viewed the site and a plan prepared by the Surveyor but they were not submitting a resolution to the Committee. They could put up 16 houses as a crescent and ten other houses besides leaving about one acre. By avoiding excessive road making they hoped to keep down the cost. Re-making a Road On the recommendation of the Plans, Highways and Lighting Committee, plans were passed for three houses in Pytchley-road for Mrs. W. White, and two houses in Upper Queen-street for Messrs. T. Swindall and Sons. Washbrook Road Flooding A letter was received from Messrs. Frank Haynes and Co., on behalf of Messrs. Ashford and Daniels, stating that as a result of heavy rain on the 11th September the latter’s leather warehouse was flooded and considerable damage suffered. The letter alleged that the present drainage system was unable to cope with the excessive quantity of water. When the damage had been assessed a claim would be made. The committee while expressing sympathy with Messrs. Ashford and Daniels were unable to recommend the Council to accept any liability. Mr. Allebone said that Mr. Horrell and he had interviewed the County Surveyor on the subject of Irchester-road to see what could be done. Mr. Black, the County Surveyor, had written to say that he had looked up the current year’s programme and he had allowed for about 400 yards of that road from the Irchester boundary towards Rushden. The work would include concrete haunching, re-surfacing with tar, kerbing and making new footpaths, besides draining and culverting. It would cost about £1,800. It appeared from the letter that the work would begin either this week or next. He (Mr. Allebone) with Mr. Lloyd had measured up, and they found that that would come along the Irchester-road to where the ditch wanted covering near where Mr. Claridge used to live. In view of the work being done elsewhere in the county and the work to be started on in Rushden, they must feel satisfied that they were getting as much done as they were entitled to, and he would advise that members should not try to rush things beyond what they were getting done. Mr. Spencer said he was very glad to know about the Irchester-road, but he raised the question of the necessity of a lamp where there was a dyke. It was a very dangerous spot and he believed there was about 180 yards’ stretch without a light. In reply Mr. Allebone said that the committee had felt that something ought to be done, but they had waited for the work he had just mentioned to be proceeded with. Now they could get on with the matter of the light immediately. Mr. Perkins raised the question of the condition of the pavements following the excavations by the Electric Company. He said he hoped the pavement slabs would be replaced in their previous condition. The Surveyor said that they were only temporarily placed at present and it was County Council responsibility. Mr. Perkins : In the meantime there will be some danger to people walking there. The Surveyor : I will draw their attention to it. Mr. Spencer said the though it seemed an extraordinary length to open up all the way from the Post Office to West-street in one piece. Hall A Welfare Centre The Rushden Hall Committee reported that the entrance gates had been painted and repaired at a cost of £6 10s., the Surveyor first obtained estimates from tradesmen. The Surveyor reported that he had purchased 12 litter baskets for use in the grounds, six at 15s 11d each and six at 18s 2d each, including plates. On the subject of by-laws for the Hall Grounds, it was reported that a draft on the lines of those at Swanspool, Wellingborough was contemplated. Meantime it was decided to post notices in the Park stating that admittance would be allowed only through the gates at the main entrance, that children must be accompanied by an adult, that dogs could be admitted only on a lead and stating that anyone found committing damage to the trees, shrubs, etc., would be prosecuted. Mr. T. Swindall asked if motor-cars were allowed in the grounds. He saw one go in a short time ago, but he thought they should not do so. Mr. Wilmott in reply said the committee had agreed that motor-cars should not go into the grounds by the front drive. They did not want motorists to use that entrance, but if any one had particular business there, there was a roadway round by the wall which led to a large open space at the rear of the house, which could be utilized as a parking place. Mr. Perkins asked if any application had been received from the County Medical Officer to use the Hall as an infant welfare centre. The Clerk : - “Yes.” Mr. Perkins : Has it come before the committee. The Clerk : It has not done so yet. Mr. Perkins : I should like to ask the committee to consider the advisability of using the Hall for that purpose. The place used at present, he understood, would not be open very much longer, and they did not want the welfare work to stop. It was necessary to have a reasonable place for mothers to visit. Mr. T. Wilmott, the chairman of the committee promised that the matter would be considered. It was agreed to allow the house to be open from 2 to 4 p.m. during the present week, and afterwards close it pending other arrangements being made by the Committee, also to close the park at 7 o’clock until the end of next week and afterwards at 5 o’clock until the end of October. “Loss” On Baths The Baths and Parks Committee reported that they had visited the Bowling Greens and Tennis Courts, and that re-turfing was ordered to be carried out where necessary. In moving the adoption of the Baths and Parks Committee’s report, Mr. A. Allebone gave details of the games financial statement for the season, at Spencer Park, and also the receipts respecting the Baths. “Last year the receipts at Spencer Park,” he said “were £333 15s. 4d., and this season to date the total is £257 11s. 9d., a decrease of £76 3s. 7d. Of course there are various reasons for this decrease. The most serious, however, is in respect of the baths, which show a very considerable loss on last year. We know, however, that the weather is the dominating factor regarding this. The bath’s receipts last year were £582 6s. 3d., and this year the amount is £270 15s. 11d., a decrease of £311 10s. 4d. It is extraordinary, but need not be commented upon.” Shifting Putting Green? The Committee considered the question of the provision of a new bowling green and instructed the Surveyor to prepare estimates for a full-size green composed of (a) Cumberland turf, and (b) ordinary home turf, and submit to the next meeting. It was agreed that the best site would be that of the present putting green. With reference to the proposed green, Mr. Hornsby said : “I see it is suggested that a new green be laid on the site of the present putting green, and I wonder whether it is the best site obtainable for the purpose. I should have though it was much more expensive than to have a site opposite the present green, and there would also be the cost of a new putting green. I should like to know whether the committee would further consider the matter.” Mr. Allebone, the chairman of the committee, said the site referred to was considered by the committee. To make a green there, however, would take a large part away from the recreation field and interfere with the purpose for which it was set apart. The site suggested by the committee would make he said, a better green than any part of Spencer Park and would lend itself ideally to a bowling green. Nothing, however, had been decided, and the Surveyor had only been instructed to prepare estimates, and the financial statement would determine what could be done. Mr. Spencer asked if another putting green would be laid down. Mr. Allebone : If the Council sanction the laying down of a bowling green on the site of the present one, another will be prepared. Mr. T. Wilmott referred to difficulties the thought would exist owing to the slope of the suggested site. One end might be three feet in the bank, and the other end stand up three feet, with consequent risks, and extra expenses for some years. With regard to the site suggested by Mr. Hornsby he did not think it would interfere with the recreation ground, which was of several acres, unless football or cricket was played extensively. He did not think the scheme should be turned down on account of room. The Chairman suggested that as nothing could be decided at the moment, the discussion should be dropped until the estimates had been received. The Surveyor was instructed to erect a small shelter for the use of the players on the hard courts at the north-west side of the courts. Medical Officer’s Payment The recommendation of the Health and Sanitary Committee regarding the payment of £10 to the Medical Officer for extra services, and the payment of £12 to Mrs. Neal for her assistance at the Hospital during the recent case of Smallpox was approved and confirmed by the Finance Committee. Discussion took place on the above recommendation. Mr. Perkins moved that the resolution be referred back to the committee. It was additional work and not part of the Medical Officer’s duty, said Mr. Perkins, asking for the matter to be discussed again. Dr. Greenfield said the committee were only asked to make some acknowledgment to the doctor and the only basis of remuneration was a previous case, which involved greater work in which a grant had been £20. Mr. Perkins said that although the patient was only in hospital a fortnight, visits were made over a period of nine weeks by the doctor. Mr. T. F. B. Newberry seconding the amendment said the doctor was only paid £75 per annum, which was not very much and this was additional work. Mr. A. Wilmott , a member of the committee, said he thought they had already acted generously and would not increase the proposed sum if the matter was referred back to them. On a vote being taken the amendment was lost, only three voting in favour of it, and the committee’s recommendation was approved. Free Drain Testing Reporting on behalf of the Health and Sanitary committee, Dr. Greenfield said the Sanitary Inspector had reported that he had been requested to test the drains and sanitary fittings at a house in Park-road. The test had been carried out and a certificate supplied. The committee had resolved that such tests should be carried out free, but that a charge of one shilling should be made for the certificate. “If persons request that these tests shall be made to see if their sanitary fittings and drains are in order, I think it is the duty of the Council to accede to such requests and to undertake the inspection,” said Dr. Greenfield. Hall Opening Approved Concluding the business the chairman referred to the successful opening of Rushden Hall, which had been very greatly appreciated by the public. An immense amount of work had been done in connection with the arrangements and he would like to suggest that letters of appreciation be sent to Inspector Knight and the Police, the Boy Scouts, Girl Guides, the four bands who gave their services free, also to the Clerk to the Council, and to Mr. Beetenson, while he also suggested that a record of their appreciation should be made upon the minutes. Mr. T. Swindall said the name of Mr. Coles, to whom the success of the opening day was largely due, should be added to the list mentioned. Mr. A. Wilmott seconded, stating that Mr. Coles had done an immense amount of work in the short time at the disposal of the Council in arranging the opening. On the proposition of Dr. Greenfield, seconded by Mr. Green, it was decided to have a photograph taken of the members of the Council in front of Rushden Hall, to commemorate the event. |
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| The Rushden Echo and Argus, 14th November, 1930, transcribed by Jim Hollis Free Church Council’s Protest Letter Several matters of interest were discussed at the monthly meeting of the Rushden Urban Council, on Wednesday evening. These included a letter from the Rushden Free Church Council, deploring the lighting of shop windows on Sunday evenings by a certain firm in the town, coupled with a request that the Council should endeavour to secure the discontinuance of the practice; the suggested laying out of a piece of land on the Irchester-road at an estimated cost of £500; the question of rent arrears of Council House tenants in addition to several matters in connection with Rushden Hall. Tenders were also accepted for the erection of 46 houses in Tennyson-road. The letter from the Rushden Free Church Council, which was read by the Clerk, stated that the members desired to call attention to what they felt was a breach of etiquette of the town’s manners by a firm which had recently come into Rushden, lighting up their shop windows on Sunday evening. The letter stated that the Council were aware that Sunday shop window lighting was common in some towns, but that they did not want it to become a common practice in Rushden, and they asked the Council to use all possible influence to secure its discontinuance. Mr. Coles : “I do not suppose we have any power to force them to stop lighting their windows, but a letter could be sent, and I do not doubt but that it would have the desired effect, as it has done in cases before.” It was agreed to send a letter to the firm in question. The Housing Committee reported with regard to rent arrears that they had had before them a revised list of arrears, from which it appeared that all but one tenant had slightly reduced their indebtedness since the last meeting. The Committee reported that at a further meeting twelve tenants in arrears with their rents were interviewed, and had had pointed out the consequences should the arrears not be quickly cleared and the future rent regularly paid. In all cases promises were made for the early liquidation of the debts. Several letters had been received from tenants unable to attend the meeting, and promising the early reduction of their arrears. In submitting the Housing Committee’s reports, Mr. L. Perkins, with reference to the rent arrears, said the committee was satisfied that the tenants were making an attempt to get level. There were many tenants three or four weeks in arrears, and they did not want that state of affairs to go on. “It is not always those who are poorest who get behind,” commented Mr. Perkins. “In many cases the husband does not know.” Attention was called to the prevalence of canvassing the members of the Committee by persons seeking houses. The committee deprecated the practice and intimated that intending applicants would serve their purpose best by confining themselves to the form of application provided at the Council Buildings. Housing Tenders The Clerk reported the receipt of a letter from the Ministry of Health approving the proposal of the Council to erect a further 46 houses on the Tennyson-road, for which it was stated that the following tenders had been received and recommended for approval. 4 houses of the parlour type and 8 of the non-parlour type, Mr. W. Dickens, Rushden, £4,696; 12 houses of the non-parlour type, Messrs. Underwood and Weston, Northampton, £4,464; 10 houses of the non-parlour type, Messrs. W. Packwood and Son, Rushden, £3,750; 12 houses of the non-parlour type, Messrs. Underwood and Weston, Northampton, £4,470, for filling up the pond, as specified, Messrs. W. Packwood and Son, Rushden, £15. It was recommended that application should be made to the Ministry of Health for sanction to a loan of £17,500 for the purpose of carrying out the works. The recommendations were approved. Mr. Perkins said, in referring to the tenders, that there were two from outside Rushden, but he thought it was their duty to get as low a tender as possible, as the cost would ultimately fall on the tenants. If the difference was a pound or two per house, it would not matter so much, but in these cases it was too great a difference to be overlooked. The Committee reported that they had visited and inspected the site and considered the plan for the proposed layout of the vacant piece of land on the Irchester-road, and they recommended the Council that for a distance of about 60 yards, the plot be laid out as an open space at an estimated cost of £500, and that the Baths and Parks Committee be requested to undertake the work. Mr. J. Roe, chairman of the Finance committee said no provision had been made in the estimates this year for such an amount. He quite agreed that something should be done at that part of Irchester-road, but suggested that the matter be referred to the Parks and Baths committee for them to consider it in their next estimates. The finance committee, said Mr. Roe, were not prepared to negotiate for a loan for such a small amount, but were not prepared to meet it out of the current rate. Mr. A. Allebone said that if the matter was delegated to the Parks and Baths Committee, he would be of the opinion that it would be desirable to let it out in small amounts. They could make a pleasant and useful spot at considerably less cost than £500. Something must be done quickly, because of the time of the year, but they could make it presentable without spending anything like such an amount. Dr, D. G. Greenfield said he would like to support the idea, but he did not think £500 was necessary. Would Mr. Perkins, he asked, be prepared to withdraw the amount mentioned and leave the matter for consideration? “The resolution does not bind us to do it this year,” he said. Work by Degrees Mr. A. Wilmott suggested the matter should be placed before the Plans and Highways committee instead of the Parks and Baths. Mr. Perkins: “The matter was brought forward because it is the right time of the year. It is just as well to remove an eyesore, even if you do not spend much money. There is no doubt it is ugly.” He suggested spending a little money in clearing the place with their own labour - the whole scheme might take twelve months, and with the first £100 or so clear away the weeds, etc., and make the spot look more like Rushden. Mr. Perkins said he was quite willing to withdraw the amount of £500, and suggested as an alternative that a small amount be submitted to the Finance Committee each month, in order to get on with the tree planting. Mr. Perkins recommended leaving the matter in the hands of the Housing Committee, as they had a further small layout to consider and did not want to spoil matters by having it in too many hands. Mr. Roe and Dr. Greenfield agreed to this procedure, and the resolution was then passed. Mr. Spencer said he hoped the committee would make a pleasant place of it. The resolution that the Parks and Baths committee consider the matter was deferred. The Council were also recommended to obtain tenders for the making of short lengths of road on the south east side of the open space, with a view to the erection of about 26 houses there next year. Mr. T. Wilmott asked how much the road would cost. Mr. Perkins said the amount would be spread over 400 houses. In reply to a question by Mr. J. Richardson as to whether the work would be done by tender or by direct labour, he said that from past experience they had found the expert work, as obtained by tender, satisfactory. The Hall committee recommended the Council to fence the land connecting the Park with the Wymington-road, with bell top iron fencing, at a cost including gates of £184 10s. 0d., and also erect some stock proof fencing for other places where required. This was agreed to. Replying to a question by Mr. Allen concerning the cost of the work, the chairman said it would be met by drawing from the £500 which had been set by to meet such emergencies. The committee also recommended the installation of hot water heating apparatus in the Hall, with radiators in the downstairs rooms, at an estimated expense of £87 10s. In submitting the committee’s report, Mr. T. Wilmott said the object of installing the heating apparatus was to keep the house in good order until it was wanted. He stated, in reply to a query from Mr. C. W. Horrell, that the heating apparatus could be extended to serve some of the top rooms, and that the boiler could easily be enlarged. Mr. Wilmott said he would like to mention how greatly the grounds had been appreciated during the recent fine weather. “Old Rushdenites,” he said, “have said that they have never seen trees, when their leaves were changing , to look so beautiful. I can assure you that the place is very much appreciated. There are half-a-dozen grey squirrels in the grounds, and there is no reason why they should not stop. I wish they were red ones, but I understand they are being exterminated, so we must look after the grey ones.” Infant Welfare Centre? An application was received from the Clerk to the County Council for the provision in the Hall, for an Infant Welfare Centre and it was resolved to ask a representative of the Centre to meet the Hall Committee and indicate the nature of their requirements. The Baths and Parks Committee reported that the Surveyor had submitted estimates for the provision of a full-sized Bowling Green in Spencer Park, composed of either Cumberland turf or Honie turf. After consideration it had been agreed to adjourn the matter for six months. Mr. Spencer asked the chairman of the Parks Committee if they had considered the planting of shrubs, in addition to trees, beside the brook in Spencer Park. Mr. Allebone replied that the matter had been considered several times, but it would be an expensive task to carry out. “If necessary we can see if anything can be done,” he remarked, “but it will be most expensive.” Plans recommended by the Highways Committee were approved as follows :- House in Purvis-road for Messrs. T. Swindall and Sons; two houses in Blinco-road for Messrs. W. Packwood and Son; two houses in Court Avenue for Messrs. A. Bailey, jun. and sen.; extension to factory in Duck-street for Messrs. R. Tarry Ltd.; extension to factory, Irchester-road for Messrs. Radburne and Bennett, Ltd. A letter was received from Mr. A. Sanders, on behalf of Mrs. White, asking that the stipulation that each of the three houses about to be erected by her in Pytchley-road must be connected with the public sewer by a separate drain, should be dispensed with, but the Committee reported that they were unable to agree to the application. The provision of 8 standards and fittings for new lamps in Tennyson-road, at a cost of £60 was approved. It was recommended that the power of the lamps between the War Memorial and Wymington-road be increased to 150 watt, and that the power of the lamp opposite Rose Hill be similarly increased. Mr. Newberry asked for increased lighting between Wymington-road and Bedford-road, in which vicinity, he said, there were two dangerous corners. Mr. Horrell said the committee had considered the whole question, and had made recommendations in the resolution, which was then carried. Mr. J. Spencer referred to the disappearance and obliteration of white lines in the town, and asked if the Highways Committee had made any decision in the matter. Mr. Horrell said no decision had been made as far as the committee were concerned. They would, if requested, consider the matter at their next meeting. Crabb Street Order With reference to Crabb-street, a letter was received from the Clerk of the County Council, with copy of an order, which the Ministry of Transport have advised the County Council, the Minister has decided to make. It was pointed out that the order, as drawn, only applied to mechanically propelled vehicles, and being limited, would not provide a remedy for the existing mischief, which was entirely due to ordinary bicycles. In these circumstances the Highways Committee recommended, unless the draft order could be amended, that no expense be incurred by advertising or erecting warning boards, and the Clerk was instructed to so inform the County Council. The Clerk read the following letter from the Air Ministry, in reply to the message with sympathy from the Council concerning the loss of the R 101. “I am directed by the Air Council, on their behalf, and on behalf of the bereaved relatives, to express their deep appreciation of your message of sympathy on the occasion of the tragic disaster of the R 101.” The Clerk read a letter from the Ministry of Transport in connection with the appointment of Traffic Commissioners under the Road Traffic Act, 1930, which asked for the name of one of the Council members to be submitted to the Ministry for the appointment of Commissioners for the district. The letter stated that there was no remuneration attached to the position, but that allowances would be made under the Civil Service, Grade “A” scale. Mr. C. W. Horrell proposed that the name of Mr. A. Allebone be forwarded, stating that Mr. Allebone was a member of Roads and Bridges Committee of the County Council. This was carried, Mr. L. Perkins seconding. On the proposition of Mr. Horrell, it was agreed to recommend that the Rev. C. J. Keeler should succeed the late Mr. B. Vorley as a member of the School Managers. Mr. Horrell stated that Mr. Keeler had resided in Rushden for over 20 years and took an active interest in local affairs. The members present were: Mr. G. W. Coles, J.P. (in the chair), Mr. L. Perkins, M.B.K., B.Sc. (vice chairman), C. W. Horrell, C.A., A. Allebone, C.C., J. H. Hornsby, T. Wilmott, A. Wilmott, T. Swindall, J. Spencer, J.P., F. B. Newberry, J. Roe, C. Claridge, C. Green, J. Allen, J. T. Richardson and Dr. D. G. Greenfield with the Clerk, Mr. G. S. Mason, the Surveyor, Mr. J. W. Lloyd, and the Sanitary Inspector, Mr. F. S. Piper. ............................ |
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| The Rushden Echo and Argus, 12th December, 1930 Newton-Road Schools in “Dirty Condition” A report to the Sanitary Inspector that Newton-road Mixed Schools were in a dirty condition, and an involved and lengthy discussion concerning the suggested bandstand in Rushden Hall grounds were the principal items before the Rushden Urban Council at the last meeting of the year, held on Wednesday. The Rushden Hall Committee reported that they had visited the site of the Wymington-road entrance to the Hall grounds, and considered the boundary lines, and it was stated that the owner would have no objection to the Council erecting fences to suit their own convenience. The Council were also recommended that a straight line should be taken from Wymington-road, to bring in the greater portion of the trees, and this was approved. The Hall Committee reported that they had appointed a sub-committee, consisting of Messrs. T. Wilmott, G. W. Coles, L. Tysoe and A. Wilmott, to interview Dr. Grieg, who, a letter from the County Medical Officer of Health stated, would be visiting Rushden with regard to the allocation of rooms at the Hall for use as an Infant Welfare Centre. The report of the Committee also stated that they had considered sites for the erection of a bandstand, and had generally agreed on a site on the south-east of the Hall. The Council were recommended to ask Mr. Talbot Brown, of Wellingborough, to meet the sub-committee at the Hall, with a view to preparing plans for consideration at a future meeting. Only Inquiries Mr. Perkins asked if the question of the bandstand had come before the full Council. The chairman replied that there had been general conversations, and it was agreed that there would be a bandstand. The committee were making inquiries as to the suggested stand, and when these were completed there would be a recommendation to the Council. Mr. Horrell: “I thought provision was made in the estimates.” Mr. Allebone: “If we pass this resolution we shall be under an obligation to Mr. Talbot Brown.” The chairman: “You may be.” Mr. Allebone: “It does seem to me, that with the number of firms erecting bandstands we could get some wider views, rather than confine ourselves to one man – admittedly a clever architect. We can get estimates free, and as this resolution is framed, we shall be under some financial obligation to Mr. Brown, and we should not commit ourselves to the payment of a penny, until we know what we are going to do.” The chairman: “We are anxious for a bandstand to harmonize with the surroundings, and we want expert advice. We propose to invite Mr. Talbot Brown to Rushden and meet him at the Hall, and get him to prepare rough sketches, not only of stands to harmonize with the Hall, but also various forms of bandstands. Nothing will be done until that is carried out.” Mr. Tysoe: “The whole of the Council should recommend whom we ask.” Committee Unanimous Mr. T. Wilmott: “The committee was practically unanimous concerning the site. With regard to the ways in which you could get designs from firms our Surveyor has had a dozen handstand plans of his own drawing. I am not saying that our Surveyor cannot get estimates from proper makers and get the thing erected. This was mentioned in order to have a bandstand in character with the surroundings. Dr. Greenfield: “We have to erect a bandstand that is without question – and we have got to erect it close to this very beautiful old house. We are not committing ourselves except to ask for ideas. All the committee agree that they had seen nothing suitable anywhere else, which could be placed near this house, and we ought to have expert advice. Mr. Allebone: “All this does not answer my question. We are all more or less satisfied as to the site, and if we want a bandstand we want as much advice as we can get.” Mr. Allebone said he was willing to move an amendment that outside advice be requested. Mr. Perkins said they might, at some future date, have to appoint an architect. “We have not got used to the place yet,” he said. “I suggest that unless we want to proceed with the scheme next year, that it be deferred.” Mr. A. Wilmott: “Some of us are anxious to get on. It is essential that this resolution be passed if we want the bandstand next year. Mr. Swindall said they were committed if the resolution was passed. Mr. Green said that if makers prepared plans, etc. they would expect to build the stand. They could not obtain such plans and have the work done by another firm. Mr. T. Wilmott said that firms would send down designs of stands erected in various seaside places, and that was why the committee desired sketches they could not otherwise obtain. Has The Council Agreed Mr. Perkins: “Has the Council ever yet agreed that there should be a bandstand?” The chairman said they were simply making enquiries after which they could have a full discussion. An amendment proposed by Mr. Allebone and seconded by Mr. Swindall to the effect that the Surveyor should be instructed to invite designs and prices for the erection of a bandstand was then put to the meeting but was lost. Mr. Perkins again stressed the opinion that the Council should have a resolution that they should have a bandstand, to be in (word missing). Mr. Swindall: “Mr. Perkins ought to give notice to move that at the next meeting.” The chairman said he was under the impression that they had already agreed to have a bandstand, but a resolution to that effect was put to the meeting and carried unanimously. The resolution of the Committee was, on the suggestion of Mr. Coles, amended to read as follows:- “It was resolved to recommend the Council to invite Mr. Talbot Brown, of Wellingborough, to meet the sub-committee at the Hall with a view of giving his ideas for the erection of such a stand for consideration at some future date.” The recommendation was approved. Newton Road Schools The Health and Sanitary Committee’s report stated that the Sanitary Inspector had informed the committee that on October 30th he visited Newton-road mixed schools, and found the external offices and interior of the school in a very dirty condition. The Inspector had said that he understood that the local School Managers had made strong representations to the Education Committee with regard to the interior of the school, but nothing had been done. The outer offices had been kept cleaner since his visit. With reference to the Schools, Mr. Horrell said that Mr. Allebone and himself had had an opportunity of mentioning the matter to the vice-chairman of the County Education Committee with whom they had visited the schools and gone through various departments. “He saw the condition of the schools and promised to bring this matter before the Education Committee on Saturday,” said Mr. Horrell, adding that the possible reason for deferring the work was because of promised re-construction, and it had been thought that the schools could carry on until such time as the reconstruction took place. Mr. Green emphasised the fact that the fault did not lay with the School Managers (of which he is chairman). He assured the Council that they had constantly applied for the work to be done and had sent a strong letter recently. The report of the Sanitary Inspector to the Health and Sanitary Committee stated that a statutory notice served upon an owner of property in Pemberton-street, requiring the provision of suitable refuse receptacles had not been wholly complied with, two houses not having galvanised ashbins. The Committee recommended the Council to instruct the officer to purchase two sanitary galvanised iron ashbins, place them on the property, and demand payment from the owner in question. Land Purchase With regard to the Harborough-road land purchase, the Clerk reported the completion of the purchase from Mr. W. W. Smith, amounting to £248 10s. 2d. The Finance Committee approved the payment of this sum. Mr. Hornsby said he was glad to see the purchase had been completed. It was just eleven months since they decided to purchase. It had been a long drawn out job, and he hoped that progress would soon be made. Mr. Tysoe said he would like to congratulate the Clerk on having completed the purchase. (Laughter). Mr. Wilmott: “The Sanitary Committee have been eleven months getting it through, I hope they will continue.” (Laughter). The Committee received a complaint as to the burning of leather bits in factories causing a serious nuisance to residents near, and they expressed the hope that manufacturers, who used leather bits as fuel, would be careful not to create a nuisance. The Sanitary Inspector informed the Health and Sanitary Committee that, with regard to the gypsy encampment on the Newton-road, he had visited the site, but could find no sanitary nuisance existing. The Committee considered it undesirable to have an encampment of that sort near the town, and instructed the Clerk to write to the owner of the site suggesting that it should cease to be used for its present purpose. Only 36 Tails The Sanitary Inspector reported that only 36 rat tails had been brought in during Rat Week, this being probably accounted for, no doubt, by the fact that a larger fee per tail was being paid by the neighbouring authorities. The Clerk reported to the Finance Committee, with respect to the proposed 46 houses, to be built under the Housing Act 1924, the receipt of the Ministry of Health’s sanction to the raising of a loan of £17,500 for the erection of further houses in Tennyson-road. The Clerk was instructed to communicate with the Public Works Loan Board, with a view to them advancing the money. The Clerk stated that he had completed the sale of the site for a school to the County Council. A letter from the Ministry of Health, which had been considered by the Finance Committee, consented to the following proposed allocation of the purchase money of £1,400; £1,075 towards the redemption of the loan of £2,175 raised for the construction of Tennyson-road, £75 towards the Council’s share of the cost of making up Purvis-road, and £250 towards the redemption of the loan of £2,175 raised for the purchase of the site. The Council approved the following plans on the recommendation of the Plans, Highways and Lighting Committee:- workshop (amended plan), in Upper Queen-street for Mr. W. Faulkner; Electric sub-station in Wellingborough-road for the Rushden and District Electric Supply Co. Ltd.; and additions to factory in Park-road and Park-place for Messrs. J. White (Impregnable Boots) Ltd. Xmas Wishes At the conclusion of the meeting, the last to be held this year, the chairman wished all a Happy Christmas with added wishes for a prosperous New Year. There were present: Mr. G. W. Coles, J.P. (chairman), Mr. L. Perkins B.Sc. (vice-chairman), Dr. D. G. Greenfield, Messrs. J. Spencer, J.P., T. Wilmott, C. W. Horrell, C.A., F. Knight, J.P., T. Swindall, J. H. Hornsby, J. Roe, A. Wilmott, L. Tysoe, J. T. Richardson, J. Allen, F. Green, A. Allebone, C.C., C. Claridge, with the Clerk, Mr. G. S. Mason, the Surveyor, Mr. J. W. Lloyd, and the Sanitary Inspector, Mr. F. S. Piper. |
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