Papurau Newydd Cymru

Chwiliwch 15 miliwn o erthyglau papurau newydd Cymru

Cuddio Rhestr Erthyglau

8 erthygl ar y dudalen hon

COUNTY COURT-TUESDAY.

BRYNMAWR.

CHRISTCHURCH. I

Newyddion
Dyfynnu
Rhannu

CHRISTCHURCH. I SANATORY ENQUIRY BY AN INSPECTOR OF THE GENERAL BOARD OF HEALTH. ROYAL OAK, WEDNESDAY. This morning, at ten o'clock, Thomas Webster Rammell, Esq., one of the superintending inspectors appointed for the purposes of the Public Health Act, to visit the parish of Christchurch, attended at the above inn, to make public in- quiry, and examine witnesses, with respect to the sewerage, drainage, and supply of water; the state of the burial grounds the number and sanatory condition of the inhabi- tants; the local acts of parliament (if any) for paving, lighting, cleansing, watching, regulating, supplying with water, or improving, or having relation to the purposes of the said act the natural drainage areas the existing paro- chial or other local boundaries the boundaries which may be most advantageously adopted for the purposes of the said act; and other matters in respect whereof the General Board of Health is desirous of being informed for the purpose of enabling them to judge of the propriety of reporting to her Majesty, or making a provisional order, with a view to the application of the said act, or any part thereof, to the said parish. This inquiry was, we believe, mainly originated by Mr. Wm. Graham, who is largely interested in the welfare of the inhabitants of this improving parish, and has a considerable amount of house and landed property in the most populous part. Mr. Graham, on receipt of the notice for an inquiry from the General Board, issued a circular, in which he ex- pressed his anxiety on behalf of the health and comfort of the inhabitants, and his desire to prevent the evils which might result from bad and imperfect drainage. In the ab- sence of any individual, more competent, Mr. Graham ob- served, taking up the matter, he resolved, at a large sacrifice of time and labour, to make an attempt himself. He goes on, in his circulars to say :—" Having failed to obtain any sympathy, much less assistance, from an irresponsible body, entitled Her Majesty's Commissioners of Sewers for the Hundreds of Caldicot and Wentlooge,' who, under the pro- visions of an act of parliament, passed as far back as the reign of Henrv VIII., exercise controul over all the reens or main watercourses within those Hundreds, some of which are within this parish, the nearest outfall for such into the river being Liswerry Pill, and who arc supposed to provide proper aud sufficient drainage to take away all surface water flowing down upon the low lands within such Hundreds; but who, within the memory of man, have done nothing whatever to improve the very imperfect drainage now exist- ing upon such lands, notwithstanding they hold. estates, and levy annual rates upon all lands within their jurisdiction, for these purposes; but, whether their constitution, the powers they have, the number of outfalls into the river which they possess, or the manner in which they attempt to carry out the drainage of a most valuable and very exten- sive tract of land, is adapted to the progressive spirit of the present age, public opinion will answer. I then looked into the provisions of the Public Health Act, and consulted seve- ral large owners and occupiers of property in the parish,on the subject, when it was thought desirable to apply to \e General Board of Health for their advice, to whom I wrote, setting forth the difficulties under which we laboured, which led to Mr. Austin, their consulting engineer—when he shortly afterwards visited Newport—walking round the neighbourhood of Fair Oak and Maindee, in company with myself and several other gentlemen who take an interest in the matter,—the result of which was, that he recommended the necessary preliminary steps to be taken,either for addin" those districts to the Newport Local Board of Health, which already comprises a portion of the parish, or t6 form a sepa- rate district of the whole parish." The latter, Mr. G. observed, appeared to find most favour chiefly, because if the Council of Newport added the parish to the .borouh, the necessary sanatory measures required AT ONCE in Christchurch, would not be carried out for some years, if the four years that had elapsed in Newport, since the application of the Public Health Act, without putting it in force, might be taken as a criterion. The mode of car rying the Act into effect, was then pointed out in the circu- lar together with the mode levying of rates, on the basis of the poor rate, &c., &c.: and in conclusion, Mr. Graham stated :-1< It is my ardent desire to see effective mea- sures adopted, before the month of June next, to improve the sanatory condition of Caerleon Village, and to remove the crying and dangerous nuisances from stagnant sewage collected in the open ditches at Fair Oak and near the King of Prussia, which if not removed, I feel confi- dent will lead to very serious consequences to the health of the inhabitants in those localities, if not to great mortality amongst them, for it is an indisputable fact, that where stagnant cesspools and impure water are found, especially upon low marshy spots, the atmosphere in such neighbour- hoods becomes a most powerful agent in attracting the mias- ma from the air, and to concentrating it, that the rate of mortality in such localities, when epidemics prevail, is al- ways the highest, and from the facts recently published by the Registrar-General, it appears that the fatal epidemic (cholera) has appeared in this country, about the same period of the year (September) as it did in the years 1831 and 1848, with this exception, that in neither of the previ- ous epidemics was any such sudden destruction of life ob- served at its appearance,as the mortality at Newcastle-upon- Tyne very recently, where the number of deaths reached 2,085 in three months. And in England, in 1849, 2,046 per- sons died of it in the month of June 7,570 in July j 15,872 in August, and 20,379 in September—the mos4 fatal day be- ing the 6th of September, when the deaths by the disease were 1,121." -» This circular was extensively distributed, and attracted much attention and comment; and, while there was a stron" feeling of concurrence with the views it expressed, on the part of those who held large house property in the parish there was also, it should be stated, a decided objection to the application of the Act to the whole of Christchurch, on the part of others. The business of the day on Wednesday, at the Inspector's Court, was opened Boon after ten o'clock. There were present in the room, shortly after the business was commenced, Messrs. Hall, Farr, Llewellin (solicitors), W. Graham, jun., T. Kesaick, M. Cope (overseer), Thomas (architect), E. V. Jenkins, H. Williams (surveyor), H. Bernal Jones, John Lawrence, and John James, with a'}afgè number^of the Moor farmers and, at a later hour, the number was increased by Messrs. H. J. Davis (solicitor), James Rennie, John Logan, R. F. Woollett (surzecnl Joseph Latch, Dr. Stack, &c. Mr. Rammell, in stating the object of the inquiry, said the General Board of Health had power to direct such inquiry on two grounds—one being on a petition of one- tenth of the ratepayers and the other, when the mortality of the district amounted to 23 in the 1000. This proceeding had befti instituted upon a petition, which had been received by the General Board, from the rate-payers, on the 5th day of December, 1853. The customary notices had been duly published; and every step of formality taken, that was necessary on the subject. Mr. Wm. Graham, jun„ was examined: Had received a parcel of notices from the General Board of Health on the 20th day of January last; which he fixed publicly in the parish on Sunday.the 22nd January—on the parish cliurA door, the doors of two Wesley an chapels on Summerton Common, and one at the Royal Oak Inn; one at Newport Town Hall on the 23rd, and another on the door of the Caerleon Independent chapel, on the 24th. Mr. James Wring, assistant overseer of the parish of Christchurch, said The names affixed to:,the petition, are those of ratepayers owners of property in the ptrish. The name of Mr. T. M. Llewellin was among this list; whereupon, The Rev. T. Pope, inquired if Mr. Llewellin was a rate- payer or resident in the parish ? The Inspector said if Mr. Llewellin was all owner in the parish, that would be sufficient. Mr. Pope wished to ascertain at this stage of the proceed- ng, how the expense of the present inquiry would be met,' if the Act was not applied. The Inspector said this question might be asked by-and- by but at present, the inquiry had better proceed in the proper manner. Mr. Pope remarked, that he should make the inquiry, on receiving an intimation of the proper time, by the Inspector. The 95 names to the petition were then read through. They appeared to be chiefly of freeholders on the Newport Freehold Land Society's estate. Eighty-five of them were rate-payers; and others, owners of property only. There were on the last rate-book, 410 rate-payers." The Inspector said 41 rate-payers would be sufficient. 'Eighty-five good rate-payers were on the petition and the remainder were simply owners of property, whose names would be struck off. Mr. Pope said there were .persons' signatures to the peti- tion, whose names had no right to be there, not being rate- payers. The Inspector Those names.are struck out. Mr. Pope said it was no use disguising the fact, that a portIOn of the names of the mt6-payers were those of partlcs who occupied property to which they were not entitled the houses being built on common land, purchased from the Crown some time ago; and the periJons who were rated" were not owners. Mr. Farr It is not necessary they should be owners- rate-payers only, are requisite. The Inspector The signatures of rate-payers are suffi- ciently numerous. Have you, Mr. Pope, any other objection, which you will put in a tangible form ? Mr. Pope: I care nothing about it; but here are a number of persons who will object. Now is your "time, my friends, if you have any objections. Several voices exclaimed, We are all against it." Mr. Pope I supposa if the farmers signing the petition are ratepayers, and that that is sufficient, it -is all correct; but I understood it was requisite the signatures shou d be those of owners also. I believe niue-tenthe of the persons signing, did so under misapprehension. Mr. Llewellin I did not so sign it. The Inspector considered that all that was neeessary to be done, had been done, in the way of preliminary formalities and now he would wish to take some general description of the parish. Mr. Wm. Graham, jun., was called upon for this purpose. He said I am a land agent. The extent of the parish of Christchurch is, from Newport bridge, east and west, in the direction of Chepstow, about 3 miles—north and south about six miles. Mr. Pope Oh, Mr. Graham, that is not correct. M. John James That is no doubt like many of the in- correct statements we shall hear. Mr. Graham I meant along the turnpike road but in a direct line it is about four miles. I do not know the aver- age of the parish. Mr. Pope It might have been obtained from the map. It is about 5,700 acres. Mr. James Mr. Graham ought to be pardoned for errors, not having been long in the parish. Mr. Graham It is chiefly pasture land—about one-third arable not much woodland a large portion-perhaps one- half—is marsh land, very little above high tide level, if any so much so,-that it is necessary to fence the banks from the sea. The drainage is under the commissioners of sewers. The marshes are in one plot extending from near Chepstow eastward to near Cardiff westward. In the parish, the marsh land is from 2A to 3 miles. I think there are about 24 commissioners. Some are present. Perhaps Mr. Pope can say how many there are. Mr. Pope I cannot say. Many of them have not qualified. Mr. James: There must be three times 24 commis- sioners. Mr. Graham If so, they never attended. My father is bailiff of the court. (To the Inspector) The commis- sioners meet periodically at the King's Head. The parish of Christchurch joins Newport, divided by the river Uske; but a part of the municipal borough of Newport is situated ) within the parish of Christchurch—from Newport bridge to Liswerry pill, being about 500 acres of marsh land- The district of the Public Health Act in Newport is coextending with that of the municipal borough and there are 500 acres of the district under the Public Health Act) in this parish. An application has been made to the Local Board of Health at Newport, in reference to this petition, inquiring if the Board would object to an extension of the limits of their district, so as to include a portion of the parish of Christ- church. This portion included the districts known as Fair 1 Oak and Maindee. Those parts have not defined boundaries known to the law. That application was made in Novem- ber last; and the only reply was, that they would consider the subject when the superintending inspector came down but the general feeling of the Board was against the annexa- tion. There was no further communication with the Board on the subject. There is, in the farther extremity of the parish, the village of Caerieon-ultrar-Pontem containing 78 houses, and 302 inhabitants; there is also a large collection of houses, on the western side of the parish, called Fair Oak and Maindee, half-a-mile from the town of New- port. There are 130 houses erected, and in the course of erection there with a population of 422. There is another collection of houses at Liswerry and Summerton, at the southern side of the parish. There are about 50 houses there, with a population of about 300. There are a few straggling houses at Fishpool, and near the church at Christ- church. These are all outside the borough of Newport. There is a collection of about thirty houses near Newport bridge, within the borough. The population of the parish is about 2000. Mr. Pope: No, no; it is about 1700, according to the census. Mr. Wring It was 1630 at the last census. Mr. Graham: The population at present is about 2000; and, in my opinion, is rapidly increasing, in consequence of a large tract of land, near Newport, being laid out for building at Fa.ir Oak and Maindee, and because of its proxi- mity to Newport, where there is no freehold building ground to be obtained. This land was so laid out in the years 1849-51-52. It is a respectable class of houses generally, now built or being erected there—some are of a very supe- rior class indeed. Newport is largely on the increase and I anticipate a very considerable influx into this parish, the site for building being peculiarly desirable and eligible. This is generally the case in the uplands of the parish. The in- crease from 1841 to 1851, in Newport, has been about 8000, and the population is now upwards of 20,000. The average rental of land in the parish is from £40 an acre to £1 5s. Mr. Pope What? You are surely wrong. Mr. Graham I let land at £40 myself. Mr. James Fortunate man Mr. Graham: The rental of agricultural land varies £1. But for wharf land, I have obtained £40. The principal landowners in the neighbourhood, are his Grace the Duke of Beaufort, Sir Charles Mcrgan, Bart., the Rev. Sir Charles Salisbury Mr. Pope NG, no. Neither Sir Charles Morgan nor Sir Charles Salisbury is a large owner. It is misleading the inspector, who is taking down incorrect statements. Mr. James: It is like many other statements Mr. Graham is making. Mr. Graham Mr. Leigh, of Pontypool park, Mr. James Rennie, Mr. Logan, Mr. Pope, Mr. G. and Mr. John Lawrence, Mr. Wm. Jones, ofClytha, Capt. Mark Wood, and Miss Webb, are among the principal proprietors. The extent of their properties is—the Duke of Beaufort, 500 acres; and the lowest landowner, 100 acres. The Marsh land is among a number of small proprietors. I have served the office of suryeyor. The parish is divided into two parts for the highways only the upper and lower divisions. The extent of highways in both divisions, is from 12 to 16 miles. The rate in the lower division, for the last three years, was about 6d. in the pound for the repairs of the roads in the upper division, about 4d.—not on the rack rent. The turnpike roads are under the trustees for the Newport and Caerleon separate trusts. There are about five miles in the former, of turnpike road; in the latter, about two. There are very good turnpike roads in the parish but the highways are very bad indeed—accounted for, by the inferior materials used in repairing them the improper period at which these materials are used and from the fact of their being gene- rally under the management of the farmers, who haul stones for the repairs only when they have a convenient opportunity. Several voices: Thank you, Mr. Graham—thank you much. (Laughter). Mr. Graham In a portion of the parish, the blue lias limestone and sandstone and used; and in other parts, the sand stones gathered from the land. Mr. Brain And Cork stones. Mr. Graham They also raise some stones for the roads, from quarries. The roads are not economically managed— certainly not; the charges made for hauling being greater than it would be done for by contract. The roads are not judiciously repaired either. The surveyors are paid £5 per annum in each division. I do not think that is a sufficient salary. I would prefer seeing the roads placed under a paid professional surveyor. I should like to see Cornewall Lewis's Bill pass. We should have better roads, and less rates ultimately, under such system. The main drainage lines would be to the river—not to the sea. Mr. Brain They all go to the river, and that leads to the sea. (Laughter). Mr. Graham There is a brook passing through Fishpool. There is a, small stream from Eve's Well, falling into the river Usk, at Liswerry Pill. There is only the Eve's Well spring in the parish, that I am aware of. The soil, generally, is clay. The marshes have been flooded—they are partially flooded after very heavy rains, in the lower portions—arising from the outfalls into the river being insufficient; Liswery Pill being the only one in the parish. The water in the ditches is generally higher than it ought to be—generally nearly full, one-half of the year. The depth from the surface is usually under three feet, excepting in the main reens near the outfall. Therej have been complaints by the occupiers and owners, of the state of the drainage of marsh land and I am now unable to drain lands of which I have the manage- ment, by arterial drainage, in consequence of the outfalls being insuttici.at., There is a very considerable rise of tide bere-the greatest in the kingdom, except at Chepstow. The lushest sprffcgs rise about 40 feet. That would give facili- ties for the drainage of the marsh lauds. There is a good deal of fog ever these lands; and much ague frequently. (Laughter.) There will be two medical witnesses to speak to that. Dr. Stack: Not to the extent you speak of, as to ague. The Inspector You will state just what you know, sir. We will take your evidence next, as I dare say you wish to go. Dr. Stack I am much obliged. The Inspector said he had no further questions to ask Mr. Graham. Mr. Llewellin said he wished to ask if Mr. Seamark and Mrs. Cox were not large landowners in the parish. Mr. Graham They are. Mr. Pope: Is the property described as Fair Oak pro- perty, freehold ? Mr. Graham It is—that portion on which Fair Oak ter- race is built. The return of the last census is 1636. Mr. Wring, to the Inspector The population in 1841, was 1310 and in 1851, it was 1636. Mr. Pope Are there many houses built on the Maindee property ? Mr. Graham There are now built and occupied, and in course of erection, on what Mr. Pope called the Maindee property, about 83 houses. Mr. Pope You mean on the Eve's Well property—not the Maindee property Mr. Graham Define what property you mean. Mr. Pope, to the Inspector I merely wish to have the truth, and not exaggerated statements. Was the population of Newport, in 1841, 10,000, and 18,000 in 1851. Mr. Graham It was so, according to my recollection. Mr. Pope: The fact should be ascertained, that false statements may not be taken. Has the population increased from 1841 to 1851, eight thousand ? Mr. Pope, to the Inspector: The population, in 1841, to the best of my belief, was about 14,000. In 1851, about 19,000. I cannot give the present population. With re- gard to the highways, it is an important matter to the parishioners. The Inspector thought the better mode was, that other gentlemen should give evidence on the disputed points. He merely wished to have the fullest evidence for or against the Act. Mr. Lawrence thought the only way to get at correct in- forma'ion on the points named, would be to examine otller par ies on the same questions put to Mr. Graham. The Inspector said he had no objection to hear statements on the points named by Mr. Graham or to take further evidence from Mr. Graham, on any matter which might be raised. Mr. E. V. Jenkins said Mr Graham, who had been the promoter of this inquiry, and had no doubt considered the matter well, had stated that if the Act were applied, the rates would be decreased. The Inspector said that referred to the improvement of the roads, under the management of a professional surveyor. Mr. Lawrence wished to know the tenure of the property upon which the Liswerry cottages were built. The Inspector did not think it right to go back, and hear Mr. Graham again on the same subject. Other gentlemen should be examined on the point. Mr. Lawrence said it was well known the houses in question were not built on freehold. Mr. James wished to be examined. The Inspector said he had half promised to examine Dr. Staciirst. Mr* Llewellin said Mr. James wished to go out huntiu" to-day, ° Mr. James That is no business of yours, if I do. I was kiting yesterday, and I do not want to go to-dav. The Inspector I will examine Mr. James, then, first.— How shall I describe you, sir ? Mr. James You may describe me as you like as gentle- nan, if you please. I reside at Caerleon u-ltra-Poncem. I Wl,s to deny Mr. Graham's exaggerated statements. ,lhe Inspector I wish to hear your evidence--not preli. minary remarks. Mr. James: Mr. Graham said the roads were bad. They we good. Mr. Farr That is untrue. Mr. James I contradict Mr. Graham totally and entirely. ^Cheers and stamping of feet.) In my opinion, the high- ways are in a better condition than the highways generally throughout the parishes of this county, except where they lave cut up the road for the Suig's End Estate. Mr. E. V. Jenkins You would like, Mr. James, to have portion. Mr. James Mr. Graham wished to cast an obloquy on he farmers, as to the roads. Mr. Graham has been here dght years, and surveyor one year. I know more about the highways than Mr. Graham can. Mr. Llewellin I should like ask Mr. James how long he ras resided in the parish. Mr. James, to the Inspector I have not served the office f surveyor, aad do not intend to, if I can help it. I have ived in the parish about three years, and have known it or the last forty years. Mr. Graham has also stated that le knows the parish well—and knows of but one spring, mil that is Eve's Well. Now, I know of few parishes )etter supplied with springs, than the parish of Christchurch. Mr. Pope Of very good quality, too. The Inspector Where are they ? Mr. James I can scarcely tell you where they are not. Lhere are at least half-a-dozen springs in St. Julian's Wood. Chere are numerous springs between this place and Eve's well—also between this and the northern part of the parish, III both sides of the ridge extending from Fair Oak-hill, awards. They are constant springs. Mr. Brain Aye, night and day, (Laughter.) Ihe Inspector; Are they large? Mr. James: I do not know that twenty millions of gallons per day runs from either. (Laughter.) The Inspector required a proper answer. Mr. James They are constant, and of moderate size. There is one on the Cwm farm—two or three on Coldra farm —a spring on Belmont farm, a very good one. There are many other srpings—and on the whole, I consider the parish particularly well supplied with springs. Mr. Graham stated that the ditches on the marshes averaged three feet from the surface. It is five feet. The Inspector: He stated that the depth of water was about three feet. Mr James: Oh, I misunderstood him. The usual depth to the water in the Marsh ditches, from the surface, is under three feet, I think-in summer, nearly dry-too dry for agricultural purposes, a great many of them. In sum- mer, 0 there is frequently a scarcity of water for the cattle in the Marshes. I suppose the cattle are generally driven, at those times, to the nearest running streams. There is an over- supply of water in the winter, and too little in the summer, in the Marshes, as regards agricultural purposes. If I could have the controul of the water, I would not distribute it as at present. The value of the Marshes would be increased, if the distribution of the water was more equal. I do not know what is the present average rental of the land. Mr. Graham ought to know better than myself; but I think his statement, as to value, was incorrect. I cannot give you an approximate idea of the rental, so as to give a correct answer as to the value. Some portl4ms, and pretty good, are let at about £2 5s. to £2 10s. per acre. Those parts are of average quality. I know some portions let at 30s. an acre, I think. 1 cannot say if there is much rot or disease among the sheep and cattle in the Marsh lands. Mr. Graham said there was a great deal of flooding, after rains, in the parish. I do not think there have been 20 acres, so flooded. A Voice No nor five. Mr. James I have never seen much of the Marsh land in this parish flooded. I have seen large tracts of the level flooded--I may say in the neighbourhood of Bishton. As to the number of houses and inhabitants—78 houses, and 302 inhabitants, in Caerleon—I can say it is one of the healthiest places I ever lived in, and so close to the banks of the river, that a drain easily be made, without the interference of a public body or board. We, at Caerleon, do not want this commission \mt the inhabitants of the other part appear to wish it. Mr. Graham I would wish to ask Mr. James if he is an owner of property in the parish. Mr. James: I am only a tenant. It is very little property I've got at all, unfortunately. I am one of the commis- sioners but do not know how many.there are, having only just got into harness. Dr. Stack I have practised over six years in Newport, four of which I was acting as assistant-surgeon to the Union, in which the parish of Christchurch is included. Yesterday I renewed my acquaintance with the state of sewerage in Christchurch—especially in the neighbourhood of Maindee Common, the King of Prussia Inn, and Liswerry. I ob- served a great many stagnant and fetid pools, ditch drains, privies, and pig-styes, from which there appeared to be no exit for the filth. The badly-drained state of Fair Oak, I believe to be injurious to health, and is likely to become more so, now that a large number of houses are being built, and the population consequently increasing. In the summer months, the emanations from those pools, impregnated, as they will be, by animal refuse and decaying vegetable matter, must generate a poison productive of fever of every type, and other forms of disease. In that locality, during my at- tendance on a family there, I found a very offensive smell on entering the house. This family, previously to their coming there, enjoyed good health but now, some member is constantly unwell, and all are far from enjoying good health. As I attributed this to the moisture of the ground surface, and the imperfect drainage of the entire surround- ing neighbourhood, I recommended a removal of the family. They still reside there, and are still ill. During the last vi- sitation of the cholera, I called the attention of the autho- rities-the nuisance committee—to the fetid odour arising from the stagnant pools along the roadside, in the Fair Oak part of the parish. I cannot say who the authorities were I applied to. I reported the state of these pools in the year 1849, I believe, to the committee appointed by the Board of Guardians. I believe some move was made for the purpose of cleansing the stagnant pools; and that the work was done, partially. Diarrhoea was very general in that neigh- bourhood at the time. There were some cases of cholera. I don't recollect how many cases. I have found fever en demic in the neighbourhood of the King of Prussia; and diarrhoea and dysentery very general amongst the poor of that locality. The fever was of an inflammatory type, and also typhus. If the drainage of that part were improved, there would be better health. I agree with the report of the Re- gistrar-General, in regard to the health of the population beingtter on dry and well-drained ground, than on ground of the opposite character. I allude to the drainage of the land in Christchurch, and the imperfect sewerage of the houses as the cause of illness. Small-pox has been very general in Newport, and in this parish, since I have been here. I think this was the case about twelve months ago. There have been cases of sporadic fever also occasionally. With regard to ague, I have observed some cases in the parish—on the Marshes part; but not to an unusual extent Mr. Pope As the minister of the parish, I wish to know where those cases occurred. Dr. Stack I have had some in the Marshes, and in dif- ferent parts of the parish, and some in Newport Mr. Lawrence here wished to ask a question of the wit- ness. The Inspector preferred its being done after the examina- tion in chief had been completed. Dr. Stack I cannot particularly call to mind the imme- diate locality where the cases of ague occurred. I speak from an impression only—I could not trust my memory to men- tion any precise locality. Ague is not more general in the lower part of this parish, than I have found in any other parishes I have gone through. I have found the climate moist, arising from bad drainage, causing catarrhs, affec- tions of the lungs, and diarrhoea. I attribute this to both the undraiued state of the iAnd, and the quantity of rain falling, I do not know the depth of rain which has fallen. Mr. H. J. Davis, solicitor, acting for Sir Charles Morgan, wished to ask Dr. Stack on what part of the Fair Oak Com- mon the fetid pools were situated in 1849. Dr. Stack I spoke of pools along the road side, and by Mr. Robert Jones's house-at the back of which there were cases of cholera—and along Clarence-place. I cannot say if those districts are within the district of the Board of Health of Newport. Mr. H. J. Davis: They are, though. How many houses were in the neighbourhood of those pools in 1848—were there half-a-dozen ? Dr. Stack I do not know. Mr. Llewellin There were eighteen. The Inspector Can you give the fact yourself. Mr. DAVIS ? Mr. Davis I merely wish to test the accuracy and know- ledge of Dr. Stack. (Hear, hear, and stamping of feet.) The Inspector said there might be an investigation into this matter hereafter. Mr. Davis said it appeared to be the intention of Mr. Graham and the promoters, to place the whole parish under the Board of Health for the use of those gentlemen who are building houses. If it was merely intended to take in parts where drainage was necessary, he should have no objection. Otherwise, he should oppose the measure most strongly. {Hear, hear.) The Inspector read his notice, to explain the object of the inquiry. 1 Mr. Rennie quite concurred with Mr. Davis, and as a proprietor, would strongly oppose the measure, if it was intended to charge the whole parish. If it was merely for the drainage of parts where it was necessary, he should have no objection. The drains now requisite, should have been laid down by those who had built, previously to building. That was the feeling of most persons in the parish. The matter might be carried out with a proper understanding if it was intended to apply the Act to those parts where it was necessary. Mr. Davis said it was generally thought the Nuisance Act would be sufficient; the Public Health Act beinc unne- cessary. Many parties who had clamoured for the latter, were now undeceived, and wished they had been content with the Nuisances Act. Mr. Llewellin said there was no desire to saddle the whole parish with the expense. The Inspector The expense of partial drainage would not be charged upon the whole of the parish. Mr. Llewellin said it was necessary, now that a large town was springing up in the parish, that something should be done to prevent the increase of evils, such as fevers, &c., in consequence. Mr. H. J. Davis What is the district ? Mr. Llewellin That is to be defined. Mr. Rennie Ou what principle are you to ak a farmer, livng miles off from the locality requiring drainage, to pay for works from which he will derive no benefit ? Could you not define the area, which requires the particular drainage sought for s t'lat the works may not become chargeable to to the whole parish ? The cost should be confined to the district where it is incurred. (Great applause.) Mr. Llewellin, Our objects are precisely similar. The Inspector This inquiry could not proceed, unless upon a petition from the whole parish. In the first place, it was from a petition of part of the parish. Mr. Graham Which Mr. Rennie signed. Mr. Rennie But I did not sign for the whole parish. The Inspector That petition was invalid. Mr. Davis Deci le the boundary at once, and save time. The Inspector The Board can apply the Act to a part or to all the parish. If you point out a boundary, which you j desi "e to include, it may be (lone at once. Mr. Fatr: Place all the matter before the Inspector; and let him decide. Mr. Graham Some want better roads, and I for one, and others, wish the Act applied, to remedy this. The Inspector Would you wish the Act applied, because the roads are bad ? Mr. Graham I would. Mr. Pope If any boundary is adopted, would the rent charge be liable for the drainage, though I derive no benefit from it ? The Inspector The rent charge is liable. Mr. Pope: Then that is a hard case, and contrary to com- mon sense and the Act. The Inspector: If contrary to the Act, it will not be charged. A conversation then ensued, as to the part of the parish where it would be most desirable to apply the Act. The Inspector wished to know what was the most populous part. ir. Thomas: There are about forty houses built on the i? air Oak Estate and perhaps fifty or sixty will be built there this year. This is going on, and will, in an increased proportion. Every allottee is almost ready to build. Mr. Davis The whole parish was not included by New- port in the Board of Health jurisdiction—only the borough. The Board thought they had enough to do, without under- taking the new district of Christchurch, when application was made on the subject. I Mr. Rennie remarked that Messrs. Graham, Farr, and the freehold Land party, should have made a general drain for themselves, and not call upon the parish to make it for them. As <f*e of the members of the Newport Board, be would have no objection to annexing certain portions of the district requiring it, to the Board's jurisdiction The Inspector saw a difficulty in forming a Board for the parish. 0 Mr. Davis did not see how to admit representatives of the parish into the Newport Board—it being composed of the Town Council. Mr. Graham was against any annexation. Mr. Pope The Christchurch Board members would have no power at the Newport Board. The Inspector They would, on all matters pertaining to the parish, Mr. Pope The principle laid down, for the application of the Act, is the mortality in the district. The Inspector The principle is the petition. Mr. Pope: The proportion of the mortality in this case, is not sufficient. Mr. Graham It is a great deal more than sufficient. Mr. Rennie approved of the annexation. Mr. Llewellin said the Newport Board would not admit it. Mr. Rennie Look at the great expense to the parish. They must have a Board, and all the necessary officers. The Inspector There is here but a small population, and scarcely enough to justify placing the parish under the Act. Mr. Lawrence And the chief place where the stagnant pools exist, is close to Newport. ° Mr. Davis: We may possibly get a greater extent of juris- diction for the Newport Board, by the New Reform Bill. Mr. Thomas And what are we to do in the meantime ? We have no outfall for the drainage of the Freehold Land Estate. The Inspector: To appoint a Board from the whole parish, when the whole parish is against the Board, would work badly. Could such a small place afford a Board and officers ? Mr. Graham Yes, for it is a question of health, which ultimately affects the question of rates. Mr. Davis Has any leave been asked for, to get a drain through any land to the river ? Mr. Graham An action was threatened, if a drain was made. Mr. Davis And quite right too. Sir Charles Morgan would have no objection to your making a drain through his land, on paying the damage but you must not let all the sewage of your property run into the water streams of Sir Charles Morgan, to poison the cattle drinking there. Mr. Pope The people at Fair Oak have gone on building, without making drains, which they knew would be required, and should be done. Mr. John Lawrence I hold 175 acres of land in the parish, and feel aggrieved that Mr. Graham gave me no notice of the petition. The Inspector The Act has been complied with or I could not be sitting here. Mr. Lawrence The greater part of the houses on the common land now sought to be drained, have been placed there with as much right as parties would have to put them on my back. Mr. Farr thought this was wasting time on a question which would lead to nowhere. The Inspector begged the last speaker's pardon—it would not lead to nowhere. The plan of the parish was then sent for, and a discussion ensued as to the parts of the parish to whIch it would be most advisable to apply the Act. The Inspector certainly thought it would be better if the gentlemen of the parish could arrange among themselves what parts of the parish should be selected instead of discussing the application of the Act to the whole district. Mr. Graham, Mr. Logan, Mr. Harris, Mr. Hall, Mr. Rennie, Mr. Llewellin, Mr. Thomas, Mr. Farr, and others, at once set to work to examine the boundaries laid out on the plan. The Inspector said he should be glad if they would point out a boundary, which he might consider, with a view to the application ef the Act. Mr. Wilcox said a large proportion of the land had been presented, with a view to its drains and reens being" cast" as soon as possible. Mr. Llewellin said he had no objection to throw off a portion of the parish. If the people of Caerleon wanted the Act, let them apply for it. Mr. Davis and Mr. Lawrence said they would withdraw their opposition at once, if the boundary pointed out, were resolved upon. Mr. Graham would be quite satisfied if he had proper drainage of the district. The difficulty of carrying the drains from the populous part to the river, could not be well got over; but Mr. Davis said the owners would have no objection to such drains, if the land was paid for. Mr. Williams, surveyor, said if the line of boundary were altered to take in the King of Prussia, Summerton, and Lis- werry Common, it would be advisable to make the Nash road the boundary. All agreed at last, that a boundary line should be drawn, which would include the chiefly-populated places in the parish, The Inspector said he was quite ready to consider any district that might be pointed out. His view would rather be to fix on a boundary which would be agreeable to all. Mr. Graham said the part taken under the Act, would be exempted from all charges for the other highways in the district. Mr. Davis Which the parish generally would be glad of —being more anxious to get rid of the heavier expense, in order to bear the lighter. The Inspector said he would have a plan to morrow morn- ing, from Mr. Graham, showing the boundary. He would now finish with Dr. Stack, and then go and examine the ground. The meeting shortly after separated, and adjourned to Thursday. ——— The Inspector sat to-day for a short time, and after taking some additional evidence, and examining the proposed boundary, terminated the inquiry for the present.

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