Dartford Rural District Council Minutes 1940-1949
2 Jan 1940 Air Raid Shelters: Hartley and Fawkham Schools
Air Raid Precautions 5 more school Air Raid Shelters approved including Hartley CE and Fawkham CE.
4 Jun 1940 Main Road, Longfield: The Elms
Ice Cream - license to sell ice cream granted to Mr A Clarke of the Elms, Main Road, Longfield.
4 Jun 1940 Mobile Homes
Mobile Homes - applications for moveable homes received from (1) Mr L V Thomas, Mr & Mrs B Stevens, Suntrail, Ash for rear of White Swan, Ash; (2) Mrs F E Hayward, 1,3,5 Lewisham Road, SE13 for Idleigh Hill, Ash and (3) Mr C F E Shaw, 21 Court Farm Road, London SE9 for Idleigh Hill, Ash. Committee recommends refusal.
4 Jun 1940 Salvage
War - Salvage system up and running. Most going to Darenth Wood depot for sorting.
Salvage - sale of waste material collected in district from 1-15 April raised £99 3s 1d. "Your committee are informed that an experiment is being made in the parish of Hartley by the formation of a dump for old pieces of scrap iron, the metal being collected by volunteer labour. When sufficient has been collected at the dump the material will be removed to the council's depot at Darenth Wood. If this experiment proves successful, steps ill be taken to introduce the scheme into other parishes in the rural district."
4 Jun 1940 Air Raid Precautions: Invoices
ARP - invoices paid include H T Penney (10s and 12s for refreshments), M Barker (£1 11s for heating and lighting and 18s 10d for refreshments) and Hartley Agricultural Co-op (£1 1s 1d for paraffin). Probably all from Hartley.
4 Jun 1940 Cesspools
Cesspool emptying - "The Sanitary Inspector has reported that notices under section 50 of the Public Health Act 1936 were served on 22 May 1940, upon the owners of Nos. 1,2 and 3 Jubilee Parade Hartley and 13 Ash Road, Hartley, requiring them to empty the cesspool serving these properties within 7 days ant that such notices have not been complied with.
Your committee recommend that Mr T H Iddison, Sanitary Inspector, be authorised to institute proceedings against Mr Herbert S West (trading as West & Son), owner of Nos 1 and 2 Jubilee Parade, Hartley, and against Mr T S Pollard (trading as Pollard & Co) owner of No 3 Jubilee Parade and No. 13 Ash Road, Hartley, under section 50 sub-section (3) of the Public Health Act 1936, for failing to comply with the notices."
6 Aug 1940 Electricity Lines: St John's Lane, Hartley
Electricity - West Kent Electric Co Ltd given permission to erect overhead lines for 335 yards from Church Road via St Johns Road in Hartley (Plan C426/39); and for 280 yards along Fawkham Road in Fawkham (Plan C434/39)
6 Aug 1940 Iddison, Tom
T H Iddison, Sanitary Inspector - he informs council his voluntary enlistment in the forces has been accepted and he expects to be called up in the next few days.
6 Aug 1940 Kent Road, Longfield: Making up and adoption
Kent Road, Longfield - "A letter dated the 26th ultimo was read from the clerk to the Kent County Council, stating that as Kent Road, Longfield, had now been satisfactorily made up, approval was given to the road being declared a highway repairable by the inhabitants at large, and asking the council to take the appropriate steps in relation to the taking over of the road, and to be informed when this had been done. It was resolved that Kent Road be declared a highway repairable by the inhabitants at large as from 1st September next, and due notice was published of the declaration."
3 Sep 1940 Salvage: Statistics 1940
Salvage - Following amount collected in DRDC district during Salvage Week 5-10 August: Cast Iron (15 tons), Light Iron / Tins (20 tons), Non-ferrous (7 cwt), Paper (22 tons), Rags (2 tons), Bones (6 cwt), Aluminium collected by WVS (1 ton). MP Mrs J L Adamson said in July Dartford constituency average for salvage was £6 4s 0d per 1,000 population, average for rural district was £5 4s 0d per 1,000 population. Ministry of Supply has sent a circular to say scrap metals they receive from authorities are mixed and they have to sort them. They have no objection if authorities want to sell sorted scrap to steelworks direct.
3 Sep 1940 Air Raid Precautions: Local Bombing
ARP - they have been very busy over the last few days due to enemy action. Every section had been called into action, Captain Bignell subcontroller said "They had turned out with promptness and efficiency". Fire brigade and Auxiliary Fire Service had dealt with many fires, biggest being at Boys Home in South Darenth. Superintendent of Home wrote to praise Horton Kirby Brigade, thanks to them and older boys, a number of incendiary bombs had been put out, difficulties had been caused by lack of water caused by fracture to mains.
1 Oct 1940 War Damage: Remedial Repairs
War Damage - Minister of Health has written to say that councils should "take immediate steps to render first aid repairs to houses damaged as a result of enemy action" and will be introducing legislation to confirm councils have the power to do so. Council agree to employ local architects if necessary when they need to know whether a house can be rendered fit for human habitation.
Damage has occurred owing to enemy action in various parts of the district, including some housing sites. Immediate steps have been taken to have first aid repairs effected in order that the houses can be rendered habitable. In regard to the Council's housing sites, where considerable damage occurred, all glass and tiles were replaced thte day following the occurrence. In other cases the repair has been carried out by local builders on orders given by the Council's officer. Steps are being taken to effect repairs immediately dmage becomes known.
1 Oct 1940 Salvage: Statistics 1940
Salvage - in August 78 tons 6 cwt of metal, jars, bottles, bones, textile, rubber and paper have been collected. Total value £204 15s 2d. System of collection has been in effect since 1 April 1940.
1 Oct 1940 Air Raid Precautions: Invoices
ARP - invoices include E J Cuff (Telephone charges, 12s 8d), H T Penney (heating, lighting and sundries, 18s 8d), S H Arthey (Instructor's fees £3 15s 0d). All believed to live in Hartley.
1 Oct 1940 Maternity Clinics: longfield and Ash
Health - attendance at Longfield ante natal clinic in July and August was 5. Number of diphtheria immunisations were Ash clinic (15), Longfield clinic (18). Council agree to supplement government allowance of 20oz of dried milk per week for infants under 1 year where the mother gets the milk free.
1 Oct 1940 Fire Brigade: Hartley Auxiliary Pump
Fire brigade - "Hartley Auxiliary Fire Service. Your committee have received a letter from the Home Office stating that it was not prepared, in view of the local considerations, to press for the removal of the auxiliary pump from Hartley, but it was considered that the rent of £26 proposed was excessive and requesting the council to reconsider the present arrangement with a view to a reduction in the expenditure. Your committee have informed the Home Office that the Auxiliary Fire Service personnel at this station were all volunteers and used the premises for sleeping when they were on standby duty, and that the rent included not only the garage and rest room, but heating and lighting, and as this was the only expense of the station, the amount proposed to be charged was considered reasonable."
1 Oct 1940
War - Regional commissioner has ordered council to make sure pubs, clubs and entertainment venues close by 10pm.
5 Nov 1940 War Damage: Council Housing
War damage - "Your committee are informed that further damage to houses belonging to the council in various parts of the district had been caused by shrapnel etc, and was receiving attention, and that in addition, other houses had been damaged and repairs carried out at the earliest possible moment. Where ceilings needed renewing owing to damage caused by enemy action, a ceiling board was now being used, which, while being perhaps slightly more expensive in the first instance would prove more economical in the long run. Your committee agree that ceiling boards should be used where bedroom ceilings needed to be renewed."
5 Nov 1940 St John's Lane, Hartley: widening
St John's Lane, Hartley - "Your committee have obtained the views of the Hartley Parish Council upon the letter received from the Kent County Council, dated 26th July, that no further steps should be taken in this matter, to the effect that the Parish Council are still of opinion that the land should be acquired. It has been ascertained that Mr Hoath is still willing to sell the land along the whole strip of his property, approximately 1,130 feet in length, for a sum of £200.
Having regard to the danger to pedestrians using the road and to the desirability of effecting the improvement at the earliest possible moment, your committee are of opinion that the purchase of the land should be agreed forthwith. Your committee understood that the completion of the purchase could probably be deferred until after the conclusion of hostilities.
They therefore recommend that the County Council be asked to enter into an agreement with Mr Hoath for the purchase of the land."
5 Nov 1940 Roads: Emergency War Powers
Roads - Regional Commissioner has told council police and military have powers to restrict use of roads in defence area to traffic "essential to the life of the community or the prosecution of the war."
5 Nov 1940 Maternity Clinics: longfield and Ash
Health - attendance at baby clinics was Ash (9 Sept - 15, 23 Sept - 11); Longfield (2 Sept - 37, 16 Sept - 9, 30 Sept - 29). Low attendance at Longfield on 16th September due to air raids. This led to low attendances at other council clinics on 3, 5, 6, 9, 10, 11, 17, 20, 27, 29 September. Note says there was no weighing of babies at Horton Kirby due to "hall not certified as safe after bomb had fallen at side of hall".
Also 1 attendance at Longfield ante-natal clinic and 2 diphtheria immunisations at Longfield.
5 Nov 1940 Fire Brigade: Summary of Activity
Fire Brigade - in last month they attended 11 fires nearly all due to enemy action. Appliances attending were Hartley and Longfield Auxiliary - 1, Horton Kirby - 5, Stone - 3, Wilmington, Swanley, Eynsford, Darenth Auxiliary - 1 each.
5 Nov 1940 Bombing
War - "During the period from the 7th to the 24th instant a number of high explosive bombs have been dropped in the area, causing in some cases damage to property and casualties. A new type of incendiary bomb has also been dropped in the area which is fitted with a high explosive charge, causing considerable increase in danger to the personnel when dealing with it, and action has been taken to notify personnel of the danger.
A number of unexploded bombs have been dropped during the above period, and complaints have been received from owners of property about the inconvenience caused to them by the delay in dealing with these bombs. The Bomb Disposal section are, however, unable to deal with inconvenience with any greater speed for the time being."
5 Nov 1940 Air Raid Precautions
ARP - ear plugs are being issued to ARP wardens. Electricity is being installed in a number of posts at a cost of £50 due to uncomfortable atmosphere caused by oil lamps. Domestic shelters are being erected by Messrs Peaster of Swanley and Messrs Crooks of Horton Kirby at cost of £13 5s per shelter. They are 4'6" x 6' x 6'. Council concerned about shortage of cement for concrete shelters even though they are told cement works have ample supplies which the Ministry of Home Security will not release.
5 Nov 1940 Ambulances: Ash
Ambulance at Ash -"Your committee are making arrangements for two of the ambulances at present at Button Street Depot to be transferred, one to Stone and the other to Ash. Mr Goodwin has undertaken to obtain the services of volunteer drivers in Ash, and volunteer drivers are required for the parish of Stone.
5 Nov 1940 Evacuation to Dartford Rural District
Evacutation - "Your committee have had their attention called to the influx of refugees from London and other districts into the Council's area. Apart from the refugees who have come into the district with the necessary authority to be billeted, which to the 29th instant amounted to 314, there are numberous other refugees who are also arriving in the district who are making their own private arrangements for accommodation, including the occupation of house hitherto empty. Large numbers of HM Forces are also being billeted in the district, thus further reducing accommodation.
Your committee are of opinion that having regard to the fact that the council's district is a restricted area, to its geographical position, its vulnerability having regard to the number of bombs dropped, and the amount of damage caused to property, that the council's area should cease to be classified as Reception Area for the purposes of the government evacuation scheme, and that the most vulnerable parts of the district, viz Stone and Wilmington should in fact be Evacuation Areas similar to the districts on either side of the parish of Stone, particularly as a number of people have evacuated themselves and asked for billeting allowances which cannot now be granted.
They also desire to point out that the influx of refugees is causing considerable overcrowding of the domestic shelter accommodation, and if refugees are allowed to continue to enter the district the numbers will accentuate the shelter problem.
Your committee recommend that these views be forwarded to the Minister of Health and to the members of Parliament for the Division, and that the Minister of Health be asked to receive a deputation thereon consisting of the Chairman (C S Bignell of Hartley), Vice Chairman, the Rev Stanley Morgan and Mr A E Rogers."
3 Dec 1940 Public Health Act Works
Housing - notice under the Public Health Act 1936 in respect of 1 Essex Road, Longfield has been complied with. Informal notices under Housing Act 1936 served in respect of 4 Black Lion Cottages, Hartley, 1 Beaconsfield Terrace, Fawkham Green and Whitehill Cottage, Longfield.
3 Dec 1940 War Damage
War Damage - repairs have been carried out to a number of properties, particularly at Dartford Road, Farningham; Main Road, Eynsford opposite the school; Hever Avenue, Kingsdown and A20 opposite Hever Stores, Kingsdown.
3 Dec 1940 Fawkham Green Road: The Retreat
Planning - Informal notice served on Mr W A Cooper of The Retreat, Fawkham Green Road, Fawkham "who has erected at this address, without the submission of plans, timber buildings which he intends to use as dwelling houses. I understand Mr Cooper has had to move with his family from his house in London on account of war damage."
3 Dec 1940 Air Raid Precautions: Invoices
ARP - expenses include Hartley Agricultural Cooperative Society (2s 3d for refreshments), H T Parrett (10s 10d for refreshments)
3 Dec 1940 St John's Lane, Hartley
St John's Lane, Hartley - "Your committee have received a further letter from the Kent County Council, dated the 15th instant, with regard to the Council's proposal for the acquisition of land belonging to Mr Hoath at St John's Lane, Hartley, to enable the lande to be widened for the whole of its length. It was stated that the county council had given consideration prior to the war for the improvement of this lane but had only seen its way to approve the provision of 2 passing places, and that if action were taken now on the lines desired by the council, the county council would be committed to the widening of the road throughout its entire length, and that even if the scheme were approved in principle they would be reluctant to commit themselves, unless special circumstances existed, to the carrying out of the scheme after the war without a knowledge of the funds which would be available; information as to whether a grant would be made by the Ministry of Transport; and an opportunity of considering the relative urgency of the scheme in relation to schemes which may be desired in other county roads. They therefore desired to be informed whether there were any circumstances which made it advisable for the county council to reach a decision now in regard to the acquisition of the land in preference to leaving the matter for decision after the war.
Your committee have already pointed out the danger to pedestrians using the road, and they recommend the county council be informed that this council are of opinion that the land should be acquired [??rest of text missing in copy] connecting road between Church Road and Ash Road, Hartley, and that the county council be asked to appoint a sub-committee to meet a sub-committee of this council on the site and inspect the length of the road, which sub-committee could point out more clearly the council's reasons for the acquisition of the land.
Your committee have appointed a sub-committee consisting of the chairman and vice-chairman of the council, the Rev Stanley Morgan, Messrs G W Smith and W Wright."
3 Dec 1940 Maternity Clinics: Longfield and Ash
Health - attendance at Longfield ante-natal clinic - 2 (also clinics at Wilmington, Franks Hall, Stone and Swanley).
3 Dec 1940 Fire Brigade: Summary of Activity
Fire Brigade - in last month the seven crews have been called out to 14 fires and 1 flooded shelter, including Hartley (2 call outs), Longfield (1).
Your committee have received approval to the payment of rent and expenses in respect of the undermentioned stations used for the Auxiliary Fire Service, viz: ??. Garage and Clubroom, Black Lion Inn, Hartley (£26 pa as from the 8th July? (also Room over Swanley fire station, and building in Invicta Road, Stone)
Your committee were informed that application had been received from the members of the Hartley Auxiliary Fire Service for heating arrangements to be made in connection with the room used by them. It had been ascertained that a small ?Tortoise' combustion stove could be purchased and fixed for the sum of approximately £1 10s 0d, and fuel would cost approximately 5s per week. Your committee were informed that in view of the urgency of the matter, an order had been given for the purchase to be made and the work to be carried out.
3 Dec 1940 Billet Hill, Ash: The Crescent
The Crescent, Billet Hill, Ash - the owner G H Cripps has a mortgage with the council and as a result of an out of court settlement has granted a right of way over the land to his neighbours Mr & Mrs W Simmons. Council have no objection as it does not affect the value of their security.
7 Jan 1941 Public Health Act Works
Housing - informal notices under Public Health Act 1936 served on owners of Bushwood, Main Road, Longfield and 7-8 St George's Cottages, Longfield. Notices have been complied with at the following properties: The Beeches, Church Road, Hartley; Minnis Bay, Kent Road, Longfield; 3 Court Villas, Longfield; 3 West View, Longfield; 7-8 St George's Cottages, Longfield; Bushood, Main Road, Longfield.
Notice to be served under section 9 Housing Act 1936 (to make houses fit for habitation) on owner of 3 Beaconsfield Terrace, Fawkham, as informal notice has not been complied with.
7 Jan 1941 War Damage
War Damage - council has spent £2,500 on first aid to houses damaged as a result of enemy action, they plan to raise a loan for this sum from the Minister of Health under Section 3 of the Housing (Emergency Powers) Act 1939.
7 Jan 1941 Stack Lane, Hartley: Beulah
Employees - 4 candidates for temporary assistant in Clerk's department, including Mrs Kathleen G Bastin (aged 34 of Mendip, Ash Road, no current employment) and Mrs Mary C Harris (aged 40 of Beulah, Stack Road, Hartley, no current employment). Mrs Harris received 3 votes but the successful candidate with 9 votes was a Mrs M M Snowden. Salary £156 pa for 2 year appointment. They also agreed to appoint Mrs Harris to the Housing Department if required.
7 Jan 1941 Health Clinics: Stats
Health - attendance at Longfield ante-natal clinic - 5. Also 29 immunised against diphtheria.
7 Jan 1941 Fire Brigade: Summary of Activity
Fire Brigade - District Fire Officer reports "Since my last report there has been another heavy enemy attack over the whole district during which over 30 calls were received and attended to, all appliances and men, both regular and AFS being engaged. While the raid was at its height a call was received and arrangements made for 2 heavy units to be sent to Gravesend. The next day relief teams from AFS volunteers were supplied.
7 Jan 1941 Health Visitors
Health - The council have reviewed the districts for the 3 health visitors:
District 1 Miss Bates (Sutton at Hone, Wilmington, Lullingstone, Crockenhill, Eynsford rural). Acreage 6,900, population 9,423, evacuees 35, births (Jan - Jun 1940) 107, average visits per month (Jan - Jun 1940) 206, clinics at Hextable, Swanley, Wilmington, Ash
District 2 Miss Walling (Horton Kirby, Darenth, Stone). Acreage 8,073, population 12,938, evacuees 6, births (Jan - Jun 1940) 78, average visits per month (Jan - Jun 1940) 196, clinics at Horton Kirby, Darenth, Stone
District 3 Mrs Lowe (Farningham, Ash, Fawkham, Hartley, Longfield, Kingsdown, Southfleet, Ridley, Eynsford Village). Acreage 15,593, population 6,539, evacuees 104, births (Jan - Jun 1940) 63, average visits per month (Jan - Jun 1940) 260, clinics at Farningham, Longfield, Southfleet, Kingsdown.
They are of opinion that having regard to the number of evacuees in the no 3 district that District is more than the Health Visitor can supervise in a satisfactory manner. They therefore recommend that for a temporary period the parishes of Hartley and Longfield be transferred to the no 2 District, which should then enable the work in no 3 District to be adequately performed and yet not interfere with the efficient working of the no 2 District. Council approves recommendation and accepted Mrs Lowe's resignation on health grounds as well as passing a vote of thanks for her services.
7 Jan 1941 Spitfire Fund
Spitfire Fund - the district raised £571 14s 9d including:
Ash - nil
Fawkham - nil (had sent their money raised to Gravesend Council fund before DRDC fund launched)
Hartley - £66 (including £34 from Hartley Country Club)
Horton Kirby - £74 11s 10d
Kingsdown - £113 15s 5d
Longfield - £3 10s 0d
Sutton at Hone / Swanley - £144 19s 1d
Wilmington - £67 1s 6d (including £30 13s raised by one teenager from Birchwood Road)
4 Feb 1941 Medical Officer: Evelyn M D M Scott of Hartley
Employees - one of the applicants for part time deputy Medical officer of Health was Mrs Evelyn M D M Scott, a 33 year old assistant general practitioner of Old Downs, Hartley. In the interview she got 12 votes to none for the other candidate. She was therefore appointed at £250 per annum.(Mrs Eveline Mary Dorothea Maunsell Scott, nee Collinson, qualified from University of Bristol in 1931. She married Cecil John Scott (1907-1959) at Farnham, Surrey in 1933. In 1939 she was living at Johnstone, Renfrewshire. Her father Thomas Arthur Collinson was also a doctor)
4 Feb 1941 St John's Lane, Hartley: widening
St John's Lane, Hartley - "A report has been received from the sub-committee appointed to meet a deputation from the Kent County Council, with regard to the council's desire that certain land in St John's Lane, Hartley, should be purchased immediately so that the road could be widened at an early date, that the county council would be prepared to give sympathetic consideration to the proposal to widen the lane after the cessation of hostilities provided the land required therefor could be acquired at a reasonable price."
4 Feb 1941 Roads: Contract for Materials
Roads - council agree to 15% increase in contract price with Messrs Harber Bros for road materials, as a result of increased wages and haulage costs.
4 Feb 1941 Health Clinics: Stats
Health - 1 ante-natal clinic held at Longfield in the past month. 7 diphtheria immunisations at Ash and 10 at Longfield.
4 Feb 1941 Ash Road Hartley: Jubilee Parade and 13
Public Health Act 1936, Ash Road, Hartley - "The clerk referred to the question of the drainage of Jubilee Terrace and Ash Road, Hartley, which had been under consideration by the Public Health Committee and stated that the Chief Sanitary Inspector had interviewed Messrs Pollard & Co, acting as agents for the owners, with regard to a contribution towards the cost of the construction of an overflow cesspool to alleviate the troublesome drainage of this property. He submitted a letter received from Messrs Pollard & Co, offering a sum of £25 towards the proposed construction. It was resolved that the offer be accepted and the construction fo the overflow cesspool proceeded with."
4 Mar 1941 Public Health Act Works
Public Health Act 1936 - informal notice under the said act served on 2 caravans at Merton Avenue, Hartley. As a result the caravans have been removed. Notices elsewhere in the district with regard to general repairs, drainage and emptying of cesspools.
4 Mar 1941 Red Cow Farm, Longfield: Dairy
Agriculture - following action under the Milk and Dairies Order 1926, conditions at Red Cow Farm, Longfield "generally much improved."
4 Mar 1941 Choaks Farm, Fawkham: Milk
Kent County Council have granted a licence under the Milk (Special Designations) Orders 1936-1938 for Choaks Farm, Fawkham to use the designation 'Tuberculin' in relation to milk. [for background see Hansard 10 December 1942 http://hansard.millbanksystems.com/written_answers/1942/dec/10/milk-regulations]
4 Mar 1941 War Damage
War Damage - council expect a small supply of plaster board to replace some of the ceilings on damaged council houses.
War damage - very little damage in last month, slight window damage at Lanes End as a result of a daylight raid, has been repaired. Council to spend £20 to fill in crater caused by bomb damage at Brent Close, Stone.
Council to buy 6 tarpaulins 18 x 12 feet in size from Messrs Cayless Bros (Battersea) Ltd for first aid repairs. Cost £6.10.0 each.
4 Mar 1941 Green Street Green: St Luke's Church demolished
St Luke's Church, Green Street Green - this church has just been demolished and provided much useful material. Council recommend bell be offered to Darenth Church on condition that it is used. Council has also allowed their unused building land at Lanes End to be used for allotments for the duration of the war.
4 Mar 1941 Salvage
Salvage - total for January 1941 was £53.15.2. Ministry of Supply are calling on councils to get 1 ton of paper, 10 cwt of metal and 1 cwt of bones per 1,000 population per month. "Your committee understand that the collection of waste paper and other products has decreased during the past few months, this being partly due to the special effort which was made during the months of July, August and September to collect all waste paper, books etc, and that in the district there are farmers and nurserymen who require paper for packing purposes and buy as much paper as possible from householder; and that in addition to the council's collection in the area, other organisations, such as boy scouts, were collecting salvage material.
4 Mar 1941 Church Road, Hartley: Claremont
Bungalows at Church Road, Hartley - "Informal notice has been served on Mr R R B Wilson, the owner of the above bungalows, requiring him to carry out work which has not been satisfactorily completed. Mr Wilson has allowed one of these bungalows to be occupied without notifying the council of his intention of doing so and without the building being finally inspected?.. Mr R R Burnsten-Wilson attended before the council when he explained that the reason he had allowed the premises to be occupied was to let people who had been bombed out of their existing home find accommodation. The chairman pointed out the offence he had committed under the Public Health Act 1936 and the council's byelaws, and the penalties he would incur if proceedings were taken and a conviction obtained. Mr Wilson was informed that the work required by the council was to be proceeded with before the expiration of the present month and completed within a reasonable time, the builder employed to carry out the work to be selected from a list to be supplied by the council's building inspector."
4 Mar 1941 Finance: Precept 1941
Budget and precept 1941-1942 - Kent County Council's precept will rise from 9s 0.3d in the pound to 9s 11d in the pound.
DRDC's budget has risen by £3,985 increased expenses (£5,005) due to ARP expenditure (£3,200), Increase in precept payable to Dartford Joint Hospital Committee (£190), end of financial adjustment payments from Crayford UDC (£410), Reduction in interest income (£380), supplements to pay of men serving in forces (£500), General administration (£275), reduction in KCC grant income for Health officers (£50). Increased income of £1,020 due to reduced expenditure on Maternity and Child welfare (free milk £700), miscellaneous income (£190), increase of grant under Local Government Act (£130). DRDC precept will be 2s 7d in the pound (an increase of 1.3d), making a total rate of 12s 6d in the pound. Although some properties have been lost to enemy action, more have been built in the last year.
In addition Ash and Hartley Parishes have levied a 1d rate, and Longfield a 3d rate plus a special rate of 1d in the pound. Fakwham and Ridley parishes have not levied a rate.
4 Mar 1941 Roads: Contract for Materials
Roads - council accept the following tenders for road materials 1941-42, but with proviso to get council's agreement if the price needs to go up:
Clinker, fine ashes (Edwards & Co (Longfield) 2/9 per cubic yard
Hardcore (Harber Bros 6/3 per cubic yard)
Road Tar (Gas Light & Coke Co and South Metropolitan Gas Co - 6½d per gallon)
55% Cold Bitumen Emulsion (British Bitumen Emulsions Ltd 9 3/8d per gallon)
Sand, Ballast etc (Stone Court Ballast Co Ltd, various 6/3 - 9/10 per cubic yard)
Pressed Granite, Aggregate Granite Kerbs & Paving Slabs (Atlas Stone Co Ltd, Wettern Bros Ltd, various prices)
Stoneware pipes and fittings 4/24 diameter (Edwards & Co (Longfield) Ltd and J H Sankey & Sons Ltd)
Team Labour (E Evered, 20/- per day, 18/- Saturday, 4/- per hour overtime)
Haulage of coal in trucks at Fawkham Station to Longfield Depot (Edwards & Co (Longfield) Ltd, 2/9 per ton).
Dry and Tarred Kent Ragstone (British Quarrying Co Ltd and Terry Quarries Ltd to give monthly quotes, prices for dry ragstone range from 20/10 to 23/4 and for tarred ragstone from 26/10 to 29/4 per ton depending on size).
4 Mar 1941 Health Clinics: Stats
Health - attendance at Longfield ante-natal clinic in last 4 weeks - 8. Also 2 diphtheria immunisations at Longfield. "The attention of your committee has been drawn to the desirability of mattresses being provided at the ante-natal clinics held at Longfield and Wilmington. Your committee recommend that 2 suitable mattresses be purchased."
4 Mar 1941 Air Rail Precautions: Training at Longfield
ARP - "A considerable number of volunteers have attended demonstrations at Longfield Depot in fighting incendiary bombs. Your committee have arranged for a demonstration to take place at the depot on Sunday the 9th March 1941 at 10am, which members of the council and the staff are invited to attend. It is hoped that members will make a special effort to be present."
4 Mar 1941 Employees: Wages
Employees - An increase of 3s per week has been agreed nationally for all adult male employees, making a total war wages increase of 8s per week.
Temporary post to be offered to Mrs L M Harris (previously unsuccessful candidate from Hartley).
1 Apr 1941 Stack Lane, Hartley: Beulah
Employees - Mrs L M Harris of Hartley declines offer of temporary clerical assistant in Clerk's Department.
1 Apr 1941 Cesspools: Ash Sanitary Committee to be wound up
Cesspool emptying in outlying parishes - "Your committee have received a report from the Chief Sanitary Inspector on the inefficient manner in which cesspool emptying was being carried out by the responsible contractor in the parishes of Longfield, Hartley, Ash and Kingsdown. The Inspector stated that complaints were coming in daily of overflowing cesspools.
They recommend that the Joint Sanitary Committee be informed that the Council have had numerous complaints with regard to the delay in emptying cesspools by the contractor and that if the Joint Committee cannot deal rapidly with the work of emptying such cesspools the Council propose to take over the work themselves." Mr Wright (member for Longfield) claimed this was incorrect and he claimed there was no delay.
1 Apr 1941 Air Raid Precautions
ARP - 1,400 steel helmets of the new civilian type are being distributed to the fire watchers. 250 axes being distributed at allocation of one per fire party with a stirrup pump.
Council committee pass vote of thanks to chairman F W Ladds and vice chairman Captain C S Bignell (of Hartley). Captain Bignell cited "for his services as vice-chairman of the council and also as sub-controller of the ARP and chairman of the Emergency Committee during a difficult period."
1 Apr 1941 War Damage: Crockenhill
Your committee beg to refer to the damage which occurred recently at Crockenhill and to report on the excellent work carried out by the various services and particularly by Cllr Mrs K Wood, who assisted in rescuing casualties from the debris, providing shelter for those rendered homeless, working untiringly throughout the night, and on the next day assisted in finding suitable billets for the various people who were temporarily without accommodation. Your committee feel that Mrs Wood's actions are to be highly commended.
War damage - council sign mortgage for £3,700 to meet money advanced by Minister of Health to meet cost of repairs to houses damaged by enemy action.
1 Apr 1941 Church Road, Hartley: Claremont etc
Bungalow, Church Road, Hartley - "The clerk reported that he understood Mr R R Burnsten-Wilson had instructed Messrs Elliott and Lynds, Builders, Station Road, Longfield, to carry out certain repairs to the property, but they had not received an order for all the items which were required to be carried out by the Inspector and agreed by the council. It was also reported that the time given by the council expired that day but the work was not yet completed. It was resolved that the time be extended by a further period of 21 days and that formal notice be served upon Mr Burnsten-Wilson to carry out the repairs."
1 Apr 1941 Fire Hydrants: Fawkham
Fire Brigade - Mr P J Gratured of Brandshatch Place, Fawkham writes to say there is no hydrant within 1 mile of his property. Council to ask Mid Kent Water Company if one could be installed and to go ahead if the price is reasonable.
1 Apr 1941 Council Housing: Garden Competition Cancelled
Housing - Council cancels 1941 Garden Competition for its tenants due to present emergency.
6 May 1941 War Damage
War Damage - "Since my last report only slight damage has occurred to houses in the area. Repairs are being carried out to houses damaged during the night of the 17th".
Council having difficulty in getting supplies of plaster board to repair ceilings. However they have received a letter from the Ministry of Health saying what constituted first aid repairs. Damaged plaster on ground floor should be removed and the laths left bare or covered with paper / stout cardboard. On the upper floor stout cardboard should be fastened to the ceiling joists with or without removal of plaster.
6 May 1941 Fire Watching
Fire Prevention Organisation - "For the purpose of the supervision of the Fire Prevention Organisation each of the present 21 Head Wardens has been appointed as Officer in Charge of the Fire Prevention personnel in his own district.
Each Head Warden's district has been divided into sections of varying size, according to the density of the population.
A leader has been appointed for each sub-section, his duties being to obtain enrolments, compile duty schedules in consultation with the volunteers, ensure that equipment provided is maintained in good order and to satisfy himself that such duties as are allotted to volunteers are being carried out.
All parts of the Rural District are covered in the manner set out above where the population is of such density as to permit such a scheme to operate. In certain outlying districts, however, where the population is particularly sparse, arrangements are being made with the occupiers of small groups of houses for observation to be kept as and when possible, but no schedule of duties covering these outlying districts can be arranged satisfactorily."
Council don't think there are any business premises covered by the Fire Prevention (Business Premises) Order 1941, other than some in Stone and Wilmington where such regulations already apply.
6 May 1941 Air Raid Precautions
ARP "The Deputy Regional Commissioner visited the Rural District on Thursday, the 3rd April, and inspected the various units of the Civil Defence Services, visiting in particular the Report and Control Centre, Horton Kirby, Riseley First Aid Post and Casualty Section, Crockenhill site of damage and personnel at Crockenhill, the Rescue Party and Decontamination Squads at the Longfield Depot and Wardens, First Aid and other Civil Defence Personnel at Stone. Lord Knollys has since expressed his thanks for the organisation of the tour of inspection and also his appreciation of the interest and enthusiasm of the whole Civil Defence personnel throughout the district and of the work which they had accomplished during the past difficult months."
Council have bought 172 rattles for warden's posts at a cost of £10.15.0.
6 May 1941 Employees: Call up
Employees - council have failed to get exemption from call up for their building inspector, and as a result of the new schedule of reserved occupations they will also lose his assistant to the call up in October.
6 May 1941 Fire Brigade: Summary of Activity
Fire Brigade - "Since my last report no calls were received until the evening of the 16-17 April when the attack on London was in progress. The Stone Brigade and AFS were engaged throughout the night, also the Swanley Brigade and AFS were fully engaged, and Wilmington AFS and Pump assisted the Swanley Section. Regional Control sent a request during the night for a team to be sent to Beckenham. Horton Kirby Apex and Crew were sent but were delayed by bombed road in Bromley, but got there without injury to men and appliances."
6 May 1941 Fire Hydrants: Fawkham
Mr P J Gratwick of Brandshatch Place thanked the council for installing a fire hydrant near his property. Council got quote from Mid Kent Water of £14.18.0 for installing a hydrant on the green at Longfield Hill, they decided not to take any action.
6 May 1941 Comforts for the Troops
Women's Voluntary Service - they have bought 81lbs of wool with a gift of £20, which is being distributed in the District to make comforts for the troops.
3 Jun 1941 Public Health Act Works
Housing - the following notices under Public Health Act 1936 have been complied with: The Beeches, Church Road, Hartley (overflowing cesspool), 1-3 Johnson's Bungalows, Ash (overflowing cesspool)
3 Jun 1941 War Damage
War damage - a number of council houses have been damaged and received first aid repairs in the last month. A parish council has written to them to say they were impressed with the way those rendered homeless were helped and the quick repairs to houses.
3 Jun 1941 Fire Brigade: Organisation
Fire Brigade - Fees to Firemen "Your committee have also had under consideration the question of the fees paid to firemen and the difficulties that occasionally arise with the Retained Voluntary Firemen who feel that fees are lost to them by the fact that the two First Line Units standing by are sometimes sent to fires which they might normally attend.
The attention of the committee is drawn to the fact that it is the intention of the Home Office that the First Line Units, although engaged primarily for war time fires, should attend peace time fires, not only from the point of view of giving experience to the personnel but to extinguish the fires at the earliest possible moment, particularly if they should occur in the evening when they might form a beacon to enemy aircraft, and to the fact that every effort should be made to save property, particularly now that so much is being destroyed.
Your committee have had before them the average retaining fees and fire fees paid to the various sections during the 5 years ending 31st March 1941, together with a total number of fires attended by the various sections. This information is set out hereunder, viz:
Total fires - 264 (Average per brigade - 53, average per section per year - 11)
Total fees - £1,956.11.6 (average per brigade - £391.6.8, average per section p.a. £78.5.4)
Your committee therefore recommend that no alteration be made in the retaining fee to be paid to the Section Chief Officers, or to the Firemen, but that a sum of £42 be paid to each section of the brigade to be distributed by the Section Chief Officers in proportion to the amount of duty and fires attended by each member of the section.
The total amount to be paid would be as follows:
5 section Chief Officers at £15 (£75)
55 retained volunteer firemen at £3 (£165)
Amount to be shared amongst the members of each section, 5 at £42 (£210)
Total £450
This compares with an average of £391 6s 8d shewn above, an increase of approximately £60. Your committee feel that the adoption of this method would be a means of avoiding the question as to which unit should attend fires at any time of the day or night.
They discussed the suggestions with the Section Chief Officers, who agreed to the proposal if approved by the council, and have given an undertaking to place it before the firemen with a view to its acceptance.
Your committee therefore recommend that the proposal be adopted, with effect as from 1st July 1941."
Chief officer reports the following call outs to fires - Horton Kirby (7), Eynsford (6), Swanley (2), Stone (4), Wilmington (7). All stations a mixture of regular and auxiliary brigades.
At a meeting of Chief Officers held at Chatham Town Hall on Thursday 1st May 1941, called by the Regional Inspector, the question of supplementary water was discussed. It was decided to mark and square off on a 6 inch map all the available supplies and to see that every receptacle is filled, so that we are able to work in the event of mains being destroyed. These supplies are to be card indexed and also lengths of hose necessary.
3 Jun 1941 Fire Hydrants: Butler's Place, Ash
Committee recommend new fire hydrant near the council houses at Ash.
1 Jul 1941 Main Road, Longfield: Red Haven
Housing - Harry White of Ridley Court to be served with notice under s.44 Public Health Act 1936 to repair defective water closet at Red Haven, Pescot, Longfield.
1 Jul 1941 Cesspools: Longfield Sanitary Committee to be wound up
Cesspool emptying - Longfield and Southfleet Sanitary Committee vote to wind themselves up on 31 March 1942 and ask that DRDC take over cesspool emptying. They cite "modern requirements and financial considerations" as the reason.
1 Jul 1941 Fire Brigade: Summary of Activity
Fire Brigade - only 2 call outs in the last month to fires, one each by Horton Kirby and Eynsford Auxiliary Fire Engines. Hydrant pressure at Longfield Hill being monitored, 20lb psi, flow 45 gallons per minute. A two man manual engine not being used at present is to be relocated from Longfield Depot to Hulberry Farm, where there is a volunteer crew available to run it and ample supply of water.
Pay - fire crews have decided not to accept offer in minutes of 3 June, but as the government plan to take over all fire services, the council have decided not to take any further action.
1 Jul 1941 Farming: Protection of Crops
Agriculture - "Standing Crops - Fire protection of cornfields. All farms to have watchers and to be abel to contact the fire stations quickly. To have at least one stirrup pump and people trained to use it. Carts or lorries ready for conveying tanks to any part of the farm; to be equipped with buckets, beaters, all old sacks, old lorry covers or tarpaulins, which are of no further use which can be saqturated with water in case of fires of this kind. Fire Brigades are instructed to use diffuser or vfry small bore nozzles, so as not to waste valuable water."
1 Jul 1941 Schools: Hartley, canteen
Hartley School - "Provision of Meals - a letter dated the 26th ultimo, was read from Mrs R E Oldrey asking if arrangements could be made for meals to be supplied to residents of Hartley from the canteen now in operation at the school. The Clerk reported he was in communication with the Director of Education, with the Clerk of the Parish Council, and with Mrs Oldrey to ascertain first whether the Education Committee would provide facilities for meals to be purchased, and secondly, what demand existed for the facilities. It was resolved that consideration of the matter be adjourned pending completion of the enquiries."
29 Jul 1941 Bignell, C S (Councillor for Hartley
Councillor C S Bignell (Hartley) - to become Chairman of the Council.
29 Jul 1941 Hennell, Rev H B (Councillor for Ridley)
Councillor Rev H B Hennell (Ridley) - resigns for council due to health and difficulty getting petrol to attend meetings. He has been a member since 1904.
29 Jul 1941 Measles Outbreak
Health Measles outbreak with 316 cases in the DRDC district, including Hartley (4), Fawkham (6), Longfield (21), Ash (12). Also 4 cases of whooping cough at Longfield. 5 diphtheria immunisations at Longfield clinic.
29 Jul 1941 Health Clinics: Stats
Attendance at Longfield Ante-natal clinic - 1. Following merger of Southfleet Nursing Association into Longfield and District Nursing Association, ante-natal patients now being seen at Southfleet. Council to increase payment to Longfield Association from £8 to £12 per annum.
29 Jul 1941 St George's Cottages, Longfield: 5
Housing - Following works completed under the Public Health Act 1936: 5 St Georges Cottages, Longfield (cesspool emptied), Red Avon, Pescot, Longfield (new WC pan provided, floor repaired).
29 Jul 1941 Wartime Nurseries
War time nurseries - Council have made enquiries and found there is a demand in Stone, Swanley and possibly (West) Kingsdown.
29 Jul 1941 Fire Brigade: Summary of Activity
Fire brigade - 9 attendances to fires in the last month with following engines: Horton Kirby (Aux 2), Eynsford (Reg 3), Swanley (Reg 3, Aux 1). Beresford Stork pump to be moved from Swanley fire station to Crockenhill where there are sufficient men there to man it. Lack of bell system making it difficult to muster a crew at Eynsford. Council to get estimates of cost of installing call bell system at Eynsford.
29 Jul 1941 Farming: Protection of Crops
Agriculture - "On instruction from the Regional Commissionr, I have visited many farms in the area and have had printed 250 copies of a circular giving information relating to Fire Protection of Crops. These have been, and are still being distributed to every farmer in the area, so that there can be no excuse they were not advised and instructed in ways and means of helping to protect their own interests?
Your committee recommend that the National Farmers Union, the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, and the Kent War Agricultural Executive Committee be asked to impress upon farmers, assuming the country is still at war next year, that they should grow barley and other similar crops liable to be set on fire by incendiary bombs, in small areas or sections in fields by setting lanes of potatoes or other similar type of crop in between so that the danger to ripe crops by incendiary bomb attacks is minimalised and fires confined to small areas."
7 Oct 1941 Bignell, C S (Councillor for Hartley
Councillor C S Bignell (Hartley) - he writes to say he is off sick and is likely to be so for a while.
7 Oct 1941 Measles Outbreak
Health - 158 cases of measles in the district including Hartley (2), Longfield (3), Fawkham (1). 10 cases of whooping cough at Longfield.
7 Oct 1941 Cesspools: Ash Sanitary Committee to be wound up
Cesspool emptying - "Ash and District Joint Sanitary Committee. Your committee have received a letter from the Secretary of the Ash and District Joint Sanitary Committee stating that it had been decided not to have the committee's sanitary van repaired but to accept an offer of immediate sale and the Sanitary Committee desired to know whether the council were prepared to continue the emptying of cesspools up to the 1st April 1942, on which date the District Council propose to take over the service for the whole district, and the scale of charges to be made therefor. Your committee recommend that owners of premises in the outlying parishes whose cesspools are emptied before the 1st April 1942, be charged at the rate of £2 per cesspool or £2 10s 0d per day for emptying cesspools, and that the amounts be collected from the owners direct by the District Council." Council agreed but amended this to make the A&DRS Committee responsible for collection of the fees.
7 Oct 1941 Salvage: Statistics 1941
Salvage - Salvage of waste paper, non-ferrous metals, textiles, bottles and screened dust was 29 tons 13½ cwt in July and 16 tons 6 cwt in August. Salvage of bones was 3 cwt in July and 4 tons in August. "During the month of August approximately 9 tons of kitchen waste was collected in the district by local pig breeders." Council has been told by ministry of Supply to survey and provide a schedule of "iron railings, gate posts, chains, bars, and similar articles in this district which may in present circumstances be deemed to be unnecessary and do not fall within the following categories, viz: (1) iron railings which should be maintained for safety reasons; (2) railings necessary to prevent cattle etc from straying; (3) railings of special artistic merit or of historic interest. Public notice of the intention to conduct the survey has been given in the local Press." Ministry has also said railings should not be removed where a replacement is necessary.
7 Oct 1941 Fire Brigade: Organisation
Fire brigade - National Fire Service took over role from local authorities on 18 August 1941. Council have accepted an offer of £4.10.0 from A Cole & Son, Brickfield Farm, Longfield, for an old engine formerly at Horton Kirby together with 4 wheels and 2 axles belonging to a dismantled fire engine at Longfield Depot.
2 Dec 1941 Health Clinics: Stats
Health - attendance at Longfield ante-natal clinic was 2. Also 2 diphtheria immunisations at Longfield.
2 Dec 1941 Fruit Juice and Cod Liver Oil
Following circular from Ministry of Health, Council hope to introduce distribution of fruit juice and cod liver oil to under 2s from 1 January.
2 Dec 1941 Wartime Nurseries
War Time Nurseries - Ministry of Health has approved nursery at The Lawns, Church Path, Stone.
2 Dec 1941 Air Raid Shelters: Survey
ARP Shelter Survey - "Your committee have received a report from the Air Raid Precautions Officer shewing that:
(i) 6,202 Anderson shelters have been delivered to applicants in the district.
(ii) 2,000 Anderson extensions have been issued.
(iii) 302 Brick shelters have been erected.
(iv) 228 Morrison table shelters have been issued free of charge.
(v) 21 Morrison shelters have been purchased by residents.
(vi) 180 Anderson shelters have been tanked.
It appears that 200 Anderson shelters still require to be tanked and that 75 outdoor and 52 indoor shelters are still required to satisfy applications received to date. To meet these requirements there are 30 Anderson shelters and 51 Morrison table shelters available and notification has been received that a further 100 Morrison shelters are being despatched by the Ministry of Home Security to the Council."
2 Dec 1941 Canteens
Canteens - Council has still not heard from Kent Education Committee about canteens at Swanley and Kingsdown. They have identified a site near Kingsdown Village Hall and have offered a building at Longfield depot now no longer required by the ARP, but await a reply from KEC. Council to write to county councillors to stress the urgency.
2 Dec 1941 Gorse Way, Hartley: Elderberry Cottage
Housing - council agreed to sale of part of land owned by Mr E O Jones at Gorse Way, Hartley, on condition money goes to reducing sum owed on mortgage to the council.
2 Dec 1941 Cinemas
Public Entertainments - Kent County Council had decided cinemas should open on Sundays between 3 and 8.30pm in December. Upon complaint by Cllr Rev Stanley Morgan that the opening houses were adversely affecting Sunday Schools, council agreed to amend the permitted hours to 4 - 8.30pm on Sundays.
6 Jan 1942 Cesspool Emptying
Cesspool emptying - Council to buy Dennis 750 gallon Cesspool Emptier with 200 foot hose at cost of £1,040 if they can get a license to purchase from the Ministry of War Transport. Application made to the SE Regional Transport Commissioner.
6 Jan 1942 Cesspools: Ash Sanitary Committee to be wound up
Mr H T Penney of Windy Ridge, Church Road, Hartley has written to ask whether the council taking over emptying in Hartley will increase the rates. Council calculate the total cost for year ending 31 March 1941 was £495.12.11¼ made up of vehicle running expenses (£81.18.4), petrol and oil (£116.1.0¼), wages and pension contributions (£295.10.11) and Third Party insurance (£2.2.8). Council's budget was £600, the remainder being depreciation on the £750 they spent to buy the vehicle 6 years ago. Wage increases and more collections may increase overhead slightly, but DRDC have already been asked to take over the Longfield and Ash area collections and are doing so for some time.
6 Jan 1942 British Restaurants
British Restaurants - WVS have offered to run any British Restaurant set up by the council. Committee to look into the issue, it was suggested there was need of one in Crockenhill.
6 Jan 1942 Gorse Way, Hartley: Elderberry Cottage
Housing - Mr E O Jones has sold another plot in Gorse Way for £60 and will be reducing his mortgage with the council by the £50 net proceeds after the cost of the sale. Clerk said their security was still a lot of land, so council consented to sale.
3 Feb 1942 Cesspools: Ash Sanitary Committee to be wound up
Cesspool Emptying - deputation from Hartley Parish Meeting (C D Mayley and R T Gray) with Mr Collis of Ash, met council to enquire about cost of service. Given the same answer as H T Penney (see 6.1.42)
3 Feb 1942 Vermin Destruction
Rat and Mice Destruction Act 1919 - 149 rats destroyed in Swanley, Crockenhill and Eynsford area.
3 Feb 1942 Salvage: Stats 1942
Salvage - in December council sold 41 tons 13¼ cwts of waste paper, metal, textiles, glass, screened dust and bones. Also other voluntary bodies had collected 20½ tons of paper and pig keepers had collected 38 tons of kitchen waste. Council to run salvage week 7-14 February. "It is hoped to advertise this special effort in the press and to obtain the use of loud speakers to tour the district appealing to all householders and others to give up all old books, files and other waste paper to the collectors when they call in the week."
3 Feb 1942 Air Raid Precautions
ARP - government says unpaid part time volunteers will not be able to resign civil defence without the consent of the local authority from 5 February 1942. Council has let affected staff know but only a very small number of resignations ahead of the new regulations coming into force.
In ARP competition Riseley with Longfield win first place for First Aid Post and Ash win 1st place for First Aid Parties.
3 Mar 1942 Cesspool Emptying
Cesspool Emptying - council have received a lower quote of £932 for a 750 gallon cesspool emptier from Karrier Motors Limited. So they decided to buy this, subject to getting the license from the Ministry of War Transport.
3 Mar 1942 War Damage
War Damage - "Repairs are continuing satisfactorily, and nearly all ceilings needing renewal or urgent repairs have been completed. The work of reglazing broken windows is being undertaken as and when builders receive supplies of glass, which have tightened up considerably during the past few weeks, and, therefore, only partial reglazing can still be considered. A number of calls have been made and advice and help in completing their forms has been given to persons wishing to carry out permanent repairs through the War Damage Commission.
3 Mar 1942 Finance: Precept 1942
Rates 1942-1943 - Precept for Hartley to fall from 12/7 in 1941-42 to 11/6 in the pound for the coming year. Other figures are Ash (11/7), Fawkham (11/6), Longfield (11/10).
3 Mar 1942 Corona Cinema, Swanley
Corona Cinema, Swanley - under the Sunday Entertainments Act 1932 they have contributed £145.4.4 for charitable objects for the year ended 31.12.1941. Council decide the following local charities should benefit: Ash and District Nursing Association (£10), Longfield and District Nursing Association (£10).
3 Mar 1942 Gas Masks
ARP - Miss G M Serjeant is visiting local schools to check gas masks and teach children how to use them.
3 Mar 1942 Canteens: Fawkham Pies
British Restaurants - "The Clerk reported that the sub-committee appointed to deal with the question of British Restaurants in the rural area had met that day to consider the correspondence from the Ministry of Food with regard to an application received from Lady Shaw of White House, Fawkham, for an allowance of meat, margarine and cooking fats to enable meat pies to be made for sale to agricultural workers and others residing in that neighbourhood. The Minister expressed the opinion that it would be better for Lady Shaw to act under the auspices of the council and asked if they would adopt the proposal as an official function of the council in the event of the proposals being approved. The sub-committee recommended that the council approve the proposals and the ministry fo Food be informed accordingly. It was resolved that the proposals be adopted as an official function of the council and Lady Shaw be asked to submit a monthly report upon the progress of the service, for details and number of pies supplied, and some particulars of the types and occupations of the people purchasing the food."
3 Mar 1942 Gorse Way, Hartley: Elderberry Cottage
Housing - "A letter dated the 26th ultimo was read from Messrs Baily & Goff stating that Mr E O Jones had made another application for the sale of a further 80 ft of frontage to his land at Gorse Way, Hartley, for the sum of £130, the amount to be paid by a deposit of £30 and 30 equal instalments of £3 6s 8d, and asking the amount the council desired to pay off the mortgage to release this particular piece of land. Messrs Baily & Goff stated that it would appear the proper course would be for the vendor to enter into a contract with the purchaser for the sale of the land on the terms mentioned, the money to be paid to the vendor or themselves until the whole amount had been paid and the conveyance then prepared in which the council would join. It was resolved that the course suggested by the solicitors be agreed to and that Mr Jones be requested to pay the whole of the amount of the purchase in redemption of the mortgage, less the cost of the conveyance."
7 Apr 1942 Church Road, Hartley: Southview
Housing - Owner of Southview, Church Road, Hartley has written to claim property cannot be repaired under Housing Act 1936 at a reasonable cost.
7 Apr 1942 Fawkham Green Road: The Retreat
The timber building called "The Retreat", Fawkham Green has still not been dismantled.
7 Apr 1942 Main Road, Longfield: Home Guart Hut
Buildings erected without plans: "The officer commanding No 4 Platoon, 19th Battalion, Kent Home Guard, in respect of a timber hut erected at Main Road, Longfield, for the use of the Home Guard. A letter has been sent requesting a site plan, so that the Kent County Council can be notified under the Restriction of Ribbon Development Act 1935, and to enable the council to issue a temporary license."
7 Apr 1942 Salvage: Stats 1942
Salvage - 58 tons collected in the last month. Council has received notification from the government making it illegal under Statutory Rule 336 of 1942 to destroy waste paper or to put it in the waste bin with non-recyclables.
7 Apr 1942 Cesspool Emptying
Cesspool emptying - council has received license to purchase Karrier cesspool emptier. Council to write letter of thanks to Mr E J Stokes, clerk for 34 years of the Longfield and Southfleet Sanitary Committee since it started up in 1907, to thank him for "the work done by him for the improvement of village life and for the good of the district generally."
5 May 1942 Salvage: Stats 1942
Salvage - amount collected in the last month was clean paper 6.96 tons, Other paper 19.56 tons, jars 2.43 tons, rags 0.96 tons, gunny etc 1.56 tons, black scrap 1.85 tons, rubber 3.65 tons, bones 0.23 tons. Total 37.19 tons, value £157.8.3. There was also 42 tons of kitchen waste collected direct from dwelling houses by private pig and poultry breeders. Ministry of Supply has said there is an especial need for scrap rubber.
5 May 1942 Invasion Precautions
Invasion precautions - parish councils have made the following nominations for the proposed triumvirates (police, army, civil representatives): Ash (F Goodwin, White House, Ash), Fawkham (L Green, Elm Cottage, Post 12B, Fawkham), Hartley (C Sizmur, Ash Road, Hartley), Longfield Hill (J W Blackman, Hollybush, Longfield Hill), Longfield rest of parish (W T Goodwin, 8 Woodview, Longfield), Ridley (none). First meeting will be at Avenue House, South Darenth on 14 May, transport will be arranged.
5 May 1942 Diptheria Immunisation
Health - circular from Ministry of Health urged councils to impress on parents the importance of immunisation against diphtheria as it was the main fatal disease for children aged 4-10. Council replied they thought they had been in the forefront of the immunisation campaign and urged the ministry to make it compulsory.
2 Jun 1942 Regional Government
Local Government Reorganisation - council support resolution of Cirencester RDC to oppose any proposal for regional government.
2 Jun 1942 Air Raid Precautions: Anti-Gas Training
ARP - Anti-gas training at Fawkham and Riseley. Council have received a mobile gas cleansing station from the county council, which is currently at Avenue House, South Darenth.
2 Jun 1942 Air Raid Precautions: Reduction in Staff
Following instructions from the Ministry of Home Security, Kent County Council have told DRDC to reduce the number of paid civil defence personnel as follows: Wardens (from 42 to 22), Report and Control Centre (from 9 to 6), Ambulance (from 13 to 6), First Aid Posts (nil - unchanged), First Aid and Rescue Service (from 34 to 28). Total (from 98 to 62). "Your committee have instructed the officers concerned to submit a scheme for the reduction in the present whole-time personnel to the revised establishments now authorised and for the whole-time personnel of the First Aid and Rescue Parties to be based on one depot at Longfield and for such personnel to be trained as to be interchangeable."
2 Jun 1942 Air Raid Sirens
West Kent Electric Co Ltd to overhaul the 5 air raid sirens at cost of £14 16s 0d
7 Jul 1942 Aid to China
Aid to China week - council agree to support the week by holding 6 meetings in support with speakers, including Hartley Country Club on 2nd July. Already £14 14s has been raised in the district for the China Campaign Committee.
7 Jul 1942 Canteens: Travelling Pie Sales
British Restaurants - subcommittee say no part of the district is populous enough to warrant a full British Restaurant, but they have considered the provision of meat pies and snacks etc throughout the area. "In making enquiries throughout the district, it was found that Messrs Light Ltd of Dartford, were already supplying meat pies in the parishes of Farningham and Longfield and the village of Hextable." They are to ask them to supply other parishes too. "They have therefore made arrangements, with the help of the WVS for the sale of the pies by tradesmen in the following parishes, viz. Ash, Darenth, Eynsford, Kingsdown, Southfleet, Swanley Village and Sutton at Hone, and the approval of the War-time Meals Officer of the Ministry of Food has been asked for?.. Your sub-committee were informed that no facilities for war-time meals were needed in the parishes of Hartley (where the school canteen is available for certain of the public), Stone and Wilmington.
7 Jul 1942 Salvage: Organisation
Salvage - County salvage drive to run from 17 July to 1 August. Normal bin collections will be suspended so staff can support drive. "They have suggested to the parish councils that possibly arrangements could be made with a local shopkeeper, or in some other manner, where salvage displays could be made in order the public may be shown the numerous articles used in connection with the war which are made from salvable materials." Parish councils to be given names of DRDC salvage stewards so they can help them, Sutton at Hone, Southfleet and Kingsdown parish councils have pledged support to the DRDC and stewards in the salvage drive.
39 tons 14½ cwt collected in June. New instructions on how to serve notice on householders to requisition railings received from Ministry.
7 Jul 1942 Air Raid Precautions: Training
ARP - film on Bomb Reconnaissance was shown to 650 members from the Wardens, First Aid and Rescue, Kent Mobile Reserve, 19th Battn Home Guard, 1236 Squadron ATC, National Fire Service, Police and Fire Guards.
7 Jul 1942 Railways: Workman's tickets
Transport - Minister in House of Commons debate dated 30 June 1942 rejected motion supported by DRDC to extend workmen's tickets until 8.30am. He thought it would be used by season ticket holders, and encourage people to travel later, putting further pressure on the rush hour traffic.
4 Aug 1942 Salvage: Stats 1942
Salvage - It was reported that the daily collections in the various parishes during the salvage drive were as follows: Ash and Hartley (6 loads of iron, 3 loads of paper and rags), Longfield, Southfleet & Ridley (4 loads of Iron, 4 loads of paper and rags). So far they have disposed of 5 tons of Cullet, 3½ tons of rags, 1 ton of gunny (sacking etc), 50 tons of mixed iron etc, 8 cwt bones, 12 cwts paste jars, 8 tons of rubber, 20 tons of paper. Some still needs to be collected. Council thanks WVS, parish councils and salvage stewards.
4 Aug 1942 Housing Completions
Housing completions - the drains at Rough Lee, Hodsoll Street have been tested and passed.
4 Aug 1942 War Damage
War damage - council have received approval from the Minister to use its powers to repair Sunnyval, Chichester Road, Stone and Derpete, London Road, Horns Cross. They have also spoken to the owners of 73 and 75 St Johns Road, Stone about reinstating their properties.
1 Sep 1942 Duke of Kent: Condolences
HRH Duke of Kent - council to send condolences to his wife for the loss of her husband in the service of his country.
1 Sep 1942 Fire Watching
Fire Guard - "Owing to the use by the enemy of new types of incendiary bombs, and the increasing shortage of manpower, the Government have decided to introduce compulsory training for fire guards and the compulsory enrolment of women for fire prevention duties. Instruction in fire prevention duties will thus be materially increased, and the stirrup pump and fire drill for all fire guards should be carried out within a period of 90 days from the issue of the instructions. It will be necessary to give fresh instructions regarding the methods of attacking the new bombs and to the public on ways in which they can help the fire guards. These instructions have already been circulated to the Head Wardens and Officers in charge of Services, and senior fire guards for street parties, members of the public and for business premises. The council's 14 instructor have discussed and practised the new teaching, and arrangements are being made for a meeting of the head wardens to discuss the reorganisation of the fire guard service to meet the new fire bomb threat. The following system of organisation in the council's area is suggested, viz:
1 Fire Party Leader to be appointed for each 4-10 stirrup teams, i.e. 12-30 fire guards.
1 Senior Fire Guard to be appointed for each 4-10 Fire Party Leaders.
1 Head Fire Guard to be appointed for each Head Warden's area. The Head Warden, if agreeable, to be appointed as Head Fire Guard.
Women to be considered for the appointments where suitable women are available.
Your committee recommend that the ARP Officer continue to act as Fire Prevention Officer, with Mr L R Shury, instructor and Mr A W Towe, Chief Warden, equally responsible for the Fire Guard Service, acting under the supervision of the ARP Officer.
In order to complete the training of the personnel as rapidly as possible, it is necessary to provide 4 additional huts, similar to that in use at Longfield, in various parts of the district, and your committee have therefore applied to the Regional Commissioner for approval to the expenditure, including the cost of erection.
Your committee understand that the Head Wardens are prepared to supervise the Compulsory Registration of Fire Guards to their various areas, and they recommend this offer be accepted." Approved by full council.
1 Sep 1942 First Aid/Rescue Depot, Longfield
First Aid and/or Rescue Party Depot, Longfield - "Your committee have accepted the quotation of £9 10s 0d by the West Kent Electric Company for the installation of the necessary electric light and heating point in the new building which is being erected at Longfield. Your committee have received approval in principle from the Regional Commissioner to the transfer of the First Aid Party Depot from Riseley, Horton Kirby to Longfield, and also to the transfer o the two movable garages for First Aid Party cars; to the purchase of a wooden hut at a cost of £55; and formal approval to the precise expenditure will be given as soon as the cost of erection and fitting has been ascertained."
1 Sep 1942 Gorse Way, Hartley: Elderberry Cottage
Housing - council agree to Mr E O Jones selling a plot with 40 foot frontage in Gorse Way for £60, provided he pays the council £50 towards the mortgage he has with the council, the remainder to meet sale expenses.
6 Oct 1942 Schools: Longfield, damp
Housing - Damp to floors abated and drains repaired at Longfield School under the Housing Act 1936.
6 Oct 1942 Salvage: Stats 1942
Salvage - the following was collected in July and August: Waste Paper (July 32.2 tons, August 27.3 tons), non-ferrous metals (0.4 tons, 1.3 tons), textiles (4.3 tons, 1.9 tons), bottles & jars (0.8 tons, 0.3 tons), broken glass (14.5 tons, 0 tons), rubber (5.9 tons, 3.3 tons), bones (0.5 tons, 0.6 tons). Total raised £335.8.3 (July) and £228.10.7 (August, including £2.3.6 for felt hats). 36 tons of kitchen waste also collected in August by local pig and poultry breeders.
Salvage - council have been informed railing etc removal work will begin in the district from 5 October. Contractors are SRS, Victoria Station House, Victoria SW1.
6 Oct 1942 Electricity: new line from Church Road to Hartley Bottom
Electricity - "Your committee report that they have received an application from the West Kent Electric Co Ltd, for consent to the erection of extra high tension overhead lines in the parish of Hartley, from the existing line near Church Road to the new Chemical Works at Hartley Bottom, a total distance of approximately 490 yards as shown on plan no C469/42. Your committee recommend that consent be given."
6 Oct 1942 Unfit Food
Unfit food - a large amount of food surrendered as unfit for human consumption this month, including 13 x 6lb tins of luncheon meat, 19 tins of pineapple, 9 tins of plums, 7lb sausages, 9lb bacon, 12lb chopped ham, 10 stone fresh herrings, 5 tins stewed steak, 5 tins of bakes beans etc.
6 Oct 1942 First Aid/Rescue Depot, Longfield
Rescue/First Aid Party at Longfield - "The accommodation for the whole time personnel has now been completed at Longfield and arrangements have been made for the whole time personnel of the First Aid Parties at present stationed at Riseley to be transferred to Longfield on the 28th instant."
6 Oct 1942 Air Raid Precautions
ARP - the Regional Commissioner said the 1942 Compulsory Enrolment in Civil Defence order will not apply for now in Rural Districts until urban district registration has been completed. Fire watching duties during daylight hours relaxed under SE Region Circular 188.
3 Nov 1942 Public Health Act Works
Housing - works under Public Health Act 1936 completed include increased lavatory accommodation provision at St Joseph's School, Woodlands Avenue, Hartley; new drainage system at Barrack Bungalow, Hodsoll Street; roof repaired at St John's Cottages, Longfield Hill.
3 Nov 1942 Water: Emergency Supplies
Emergency Water Supplies - "Progress is being made in testing well water throughout the district. I have arranged for Mr Earl to carry out the testing and chlorination of such water."
3 Nov 1942 War Damage
Housing - Deputy engineer and surveyor reports that war damage repairs have been completed on council houses in Stone and Swanley; periodical painting has been completed at Longfield, Sunset View Stone, Hillrise Darenth.
War damage - the following actions have been taken:
9 & 11 Carsington Gardens, Dartford - 11 has been demolished and salvageable materials taken to Longfield depot. First aid repairs by covering windows and fixing doors to no. 9.
73 & 75 St John's Road, Stone - survey completed and specifications prepared for reinstatement.
The Lodge, St Mary's Home, Watling Street, Stone - reinstatement work in progress.
Homestalls, Main Road, Kingsdown - survey and specifications completed.
2-40 Tylers Green, Crockenhill - extended repairs have been satisfactorily completed.
5 Jan 1943 Water Supply to Ash
Water - "Suggestions for static supplies at Longfield Hill, Ash and Ridley have been forwarded through Area Headquarters to Region, and the question of additional hydrants is receiving immediate attention. It is understood that a relay was held on the 2nd instant, in which water was relayed from the water basin at Longfield to the Divisional Training School at Pincroft, a distance of 1¾ miles." The Fire Force Commander has asked the council to do something about the water supply at Longfield Hill. Council say they can't because of a shortage of steel dams, meaning such that they have must go to "more important places". They would reconsider if dams became available.
5 Jan 1943 Employees: Salaries
Staff - annual review of salaries sets following rates - General Division (Males £150-£225, Females £140-£170), Clerical Division A (Males £230-£260), Administrative Division A (Females £180-£220).
5 Jan 1943 Finance: Precept 1943
Rates 1943-1944 - council looks again at removing parochial special expenses and charging them on the general rate. Council notes that this has been gradually happening already. One of main remaining special expense is sewerage expenses, and they decided to charge this to the general rate, meaning a 6d in the pound rise. They noted that cesspool emptying is now charged to the general rate and don't think that the arguments against carry much weight. They also think it will make the district stronger against any threatened reorganisation. On being put to the vote the full council voted 11-3 in favour. The members for Longfield and Ash voted against. The member for Hartley was in favour.
5 Jan 1943 Diptheria Immunisation
Health - 79 Diphtheria immunisations at Longfield and 20 at Ash. They have received a circular from the Ministry of Health saying they are about to publicise the scheme for children to get vitamin D supplements through Cod Liver Oil and Fruit Juice.
2 Feb 1943 Air Raid Sirens
ARP - council have submitted application to Ministry of Home Security to operate the 5 public sirens by remote control. Cost £130 per annum.
2 Feb 1943 Matchett, Rev (Councillor for Fawkham)
Councillor for Fawkham - Rev J T Matchett has resigned and Fawkham Parish Council were asked to nominate suitable persons for consideration by DRDC. They suggested Lady EMT Shaw of the White House, or Sir Thomas Hohler of Fawkham Manor. DRDC chose Lady EMT Shaw to be the councillor.
2 Feb 1943 Salvage: Stats 1943
Salvage 69.6 tons were collected in January, made up of Screened Dust (41 tons), Paper (17.9 tons), Cullet (5 tons), Jars (4 tons), Rags (0.9 tons), Sacking etc (0.5 tons), Bones (0.2 tons), Black Scarp (0.1 tons). Total value £116 15s 1d. 41 tons of ashes were collected by brick makers, and 45 tons of kitchen waste by local pig and poultry breeders.
Railings - Council concerned to hear that Ministry has done another survey in the district after expressing satisfaction with the council's.
2 Mar 1943 Finance: Precept
Rates 1943-1944 - District and county rate will be 12s 3d in the pound, up from 11s 6d in 1942-1943. In addition Hartley Parish Council has levied a 1d rate and Longfield a 2d rate (Ash, Fawkham, Ridley - nil).
6 Apr 1943 Salvage: Stats 1943
Salvage - in February the council collected rags (0.6 ton), gunny (0.5 ton), bottles & jars (0.5 ton), bones (0.3 ton), paper (11.1 tons), cullet (0.5 ton), metal (¼ cwt). 37 tons of screened dust taken by brickmakers and 41 tons of kitchen waste by local pig and poultry breeders.
6 Apr 1943 Rubbish Collection
Rubbish collection - householders have trouble getting dustbins, so council decide to buy 100 black painted dustins for sale to the public from W P Butterfield Limited at 10s 10d each plus 2s 2d purchase tax.
6 Apr 1943 Council Housing: Post War Plans
Housing - Minister of Health has asked for details of how many houses the council wishes to build in the first year they are allowed to after the war. DRDC say 200, but haven't decided where yet.
6 Apr 1943 War Damage
War damage - some damage to roofs by shrapnel, repairs carried out where necessary. Repairs to 73-75 St Johns Road, Stone delayed by other calls on the workmen's time.
6 Apr 1943 Scudders Farm, Fawkham: Lease of Farningham Woods
Farningham Woods - Mr J Lewis of Scudders Farm, Fawkham to take tenancy of Purgate Bottom Field at £15 per annum rent.
6 Apr 1943 Greater London Plan
Post War Planning - Captain Bignell and 3 other to attend meeting between Professor Abercrombie and local authorities in the London Area.
6 Apr 1943 Fawkham Green Road: The Retreat
The Retreat, Fawkham - Mr W A Cooper still has not demolished the building and council learns that it has been used on occasion for human habitation. Council have served notice on him to comply within 7 days after 25 March or they will take proceedings under the Public Health Act 1936. At full council a letter from Mr Cooper was read, saying that he had sublet the land to Mr Chilmaid and had not authorised the occupation of the building. Council decide to demolish the property themselves.
6 Apr 1943 Rescue Services
ARP - Regional Commissioner has decided to merge the Rescue and First Aid Party Services to be called the Rescue Services. DRDC to have 9 parties of 7 people (4 full time, 5 part time), to be based at Longfield (4 FT, 1 PT), Hawley (2 PT), Kingsdown (1 PT), Swanley (1 PT). Additional accommodation will be required at Longfield, Hawley and Kingsdown.
6 Apr 1943 Beveridge Report
Beveridge Report - Council consider motions of support from Chislehurst and Sidcup Urban District Council. "After discussion it was resolved that the council call upon HM Government to introduce legislation at an early date adopting the general policy of the Beveridge Report, and to take such steps as may be necessary to put into operation the essential principles of such report immediately upon cessation of hostilities."
6 Apr 1943 Food Control Committee
Dartford Rural Food Control Committee - council protest that their Food Executive Officer had been promised the job of a combined Dartford Urban / Rural / Swanscombe district but without warning it was suddenly given to Dartford's FEO instead. DRDC feel that officers should not be appointed if they have interests which may affect their impartiality.
6 Apr 1943 HMS Gloxinia
Warships Week 1942 - council have received plaque commemorating their adoption of HMS Gloxinia during the week, which will be put in the entrance hall of the council offices. They have asked the WVS to organise comforts, books, games etc for the crew.
6 Apr 1943 Bignell, C S (Councillor for Hartley
Captain C S Bignell (Member for Hartley) - "The Rev Stanley Morgan spoke in appreciative terms of the services rendered by Captain C S Bignell JP as Chairman of the Council for the past year, and this appreciation was supported by other members of the council. It was resolved that an expression of the council's appreciation be conveyed to the Chairman for his services during the past year. The chairman thereupon acknowledged the expression of appreciation."
4 May 1943 Salvage: Stats 1943
Salvage - the following were collected in March: Dust for brickmakers (38 tons), kitchen waste (43 tons), rags (1 ton), sacking (0.8 ton), jars (7 gross), bottle tops (£1 1s worth), black scrap (4.9 tons), bones (0.6 tons), paper (14.5 tons), rubber (1.5 tons), cullet (3 tons), broken records (10s worth), books (40 to distribute to local army units). Total value where sold £124.15.8. There is a collection towards the National Book Recovery and Salvage Appeal in the fortnight 8-22 May, the target is 2 books per head of population.
4 May 1943 Scabies
Health - Scabies to become a notifiable disease in the DRDC district. Kent County Council have asked for details of arrangements to treat smallpox. DRDC reply they have an arrangement with the London County Council for their smallpox hospitals to take patients from the DRDC area. DRDC to pay for running expenses for each patient or £120 per year whichever is greater.
4 May 1943 Health Clinics: Rent for
Council agree the following rents be paid for rent for clinics: Ash (8s 0d per meeting - cheapest), Longfield (12s 6d per meeting, same rent for Farningham, Hextable, Horton Kirby, Kingsdown, Swanley and Wilmington Halls).
4 May 1943 Maternity Clinics: Longfield and Ash
Attendance at recent Longfield Ante-Natal clinic was 3. Also 4 children immunised against diphtheria at Longfield in March, no whooping cough immunisations.
4 May 1943 Electricity: Post War Reorganisation
Post War Reconstruction - Electricity "Your committee have considered a report by the London and Home Counties Joint Electricity Authority on the reorganisation and development of electricity supply services, and an outline of a scheme for the London and Home Counties Electricity district. The scheme proposed provides for a reconstituted Electricity Board and for the transfer to the new Board of all the Undertakings within the district, the Appointed Day of transfer to be the earliest possible date, if practicable before the termination of the War, so as to enable an improved organisation to line up as a single concentrated organisation and to take its part as an essential feature of National Planning". Idea is to bring in uniformity of systems (e.g. phasing out DC current) and tariffs, and to bring in improvements held back by the fragmentation of the industry. Council vote to support the scheme, however they say it should go further and take over gas undertakings too and that they should all be under local authority control.
4 May 1943 Planning: Post War
Housing - DRDC agrees to back Gravesend Council's motion of support to the Scott and Uthwatt commission reports on post war planning.
4 May 1943 Rescue Services: Ambulances
ARP Rescue Service - DRDC have submitted the following scheme for their vehicles to the Regional Commissioner for approval:
Whole time ambulances to be increased from 6 to 9 if application accepted.
Chevrolet (Reg KR5143), Austin (Reg YV2028), Studebaker (Reg CGU344) to remain as ambulances.
Morris Ambulance (Reg AUW484) to be converted to rescue van.
Ford V8 (Reg NJ6562) to be decided later.
Talbot ambulance (reg KL6746) is no longer serviceable and should be used for parts.
Austin 18hp cars (Reg CKO937, CKK526) and Hilman 20hp (Reg CKJ156) currently first aid party cars to be converted into ambulances.
To apply to Regional Commissioner for 6 extra rescue vans so there will be one per Rescue Party.
4 May 1943 Water Supply to Hartley
Parish of Hartley - Fire Brigades Act 1938 - "A letter from the Mid-Kent Water Company dated the 29th ultimo was read, stating that in accordance with section 3 of the Fire Brigades Act 1938, they gave formal notice of the intention of the company after the expiration of 14 days from the receipt to the Notice to provide and lay a 12 inch water main in the parish of Hartley as indicated on the plan enclosed with the notice. It was stated that the main would be supplied from their high level reservoir at Exdown with a capacity of 1 million gallons. They desired to be informed of any observations the Council desired to make upon the proposal, as in the absence of any observations they proposed to proceed with the work. The Clerk reported that he had consulted the Surveyor and the National Fire Service who had no observations to offer upon the proposals, and he had informed the Company, but had stated that the reinstatement of the highway should be carried out to the satisfaction of the Engineer and Surveyor."
4 May 1943 Women's Land Army: Billeting
Women's Land Army - Council discussed billeting. At present it was on a voluntary basis and no-one has been compulsorily billeted at present. Council tell Kent War Agricultural Committee they favour setting up hostels for WLA personnel.
4 May 1943 Fire Watching
Fire Guards - each parish has reported on progress of training of Fire Guards compulsorily enrolled under the Civil Defence Duties (Compulsory Enrolment) Order 1942. Longfield (not yet commenced), Hartley (in progress, 2 lectures per week by Mrs Lacy), Ash (in progress, 3 lectures per week by Mrs Lacy), Fawkham (in progress, 3 lectures per week by Messrs L Green and Castle-Smith). Special provision for training of persons in isolated places, including Hodsoll Street.
4 May 1943 Housing: Mortgage at Hartley
Housing - Mortgage to Mr A H Thompson in relation to premises in Hartley has been paid off. Council to sign discharge.
4 May 1943 Anthrax
Agriculture: Anthrax "A case of anthrax was notified and confirmed at Lower Austen Lodge Farm. The carcase was destroyed and buried in quicklime and the necessary disinfection carried out."
1 Jun 1943 Diptheria Immunisation
Health - immunisations for diphtheria (Ash 1, Longfield 2), Whooping Cough (Ash 1)
1 Jun 1943 War Time Nurseries: Longfield
War time Nurseries - Council has received a request for one at Longfield. Mr Wright (local member) said he thought there was no demand for one. Council to make enquiries. Attendance at Stone Nursery averages 20.
1 Jun 1943 Women's Land Army: Billeting
Women's Land Army - WLA report to council that they hoped to open a hostel at The Priory, Swanley Village in June.
6 Jul 1943 Measles Outbreak
Health - cases of Whooping Cough (Ash 1), Measles (Longfield 3, Ash 5), Erysipelas (Longfield 1)
6 Jul 1943 Book Drive
Salvage - Book Drive Chief Sanitary Inspector reports "During the past month my time has been mostly employed in organising, collecting and sorting books for the National Book Drive and to date the following is a record of the book drive:
6,247 books sent to troops per Post Office; 20,928 books sent to paper mills for salvage; 85 books retained of historical value. Total 27,260."
Your committee have written to the district secretaries of the Dartford, Chislehurst and Sidcup and Orpington, and the Sevenoaks District committees, expressing thanks and appreciation for the cooperation and help given by the teachers and children at schools in the council's area in connection with the book drive. Your committee also desire to place on record appreciation of the sacrifices made by many children in giving up their own books, such as prizes etc to the book drive.
Your committee are also pleased to record their appreciation of the assistance given by Mr Passmore-Bishop of Little Stirrups, Church Road, Hartley, in organising the collection of books for the book drive in the parish of Hartley, from which parish some 10,000 books were collected.
6 Jul 1943 Salvage: Stats
Salvage May salvage figures were: Ashes for Brickmakers (42 tons), kitchen waste (43.5 tons), textiles (1.1 tons), cullett (2.5 tons), Paper (15.1 tons), black scrap (0.8 tons), bones (0.3 tons). Total value £106.7.11.
6 Jul 1943 Typhus Policy
Health: Typhus Countywide scheme for dealing with any cases agreed to by DRDC. All cases from Kent to go to Bow Arrow Hospital, Dartford. All costs to fall on county rate.
6 Jul 1943 Concerts for Troops
Entertainments on Sundays Corona Cinema in Swanley ask for permission to hold concerts for troops in August on Sunday afternoons. Currently their stage play licence only covers weekdays. In view of help cinema has given to charitable events, council agree.
6 Jul 1943 Mobile Cinema
YMCA Mobile Cinema Van DRDC decide to join in fundraising drive to buy a Mobile Cinema van for Dartford UDC, Dartford RDC and Crayford UDC areas. Cost £750 to £1,000.
6 Jul 1943 HMS Gloxinia
HMS Gloxinia "A letter from the commanding officer of HMS Gloxinia was read, dated the 17th ultimo, expressing the appreciation of the officers and members of the ship's company on their adoption by the inhabitants of the Rural District. He stated that the ship had been on service in the Mediterranean since the first months of her life, and that the Admiralty had not forgotten that the flower Gloxinia was a native of Africa. He also stated that the work of Corvettes against U-Boats and as convoy escorts was well known, and the Gloxinia had seen a good deal of sea and parts of the Greek and three Libyan campaigns, as well as the battle for Malta. In addition, the ship had shot down an enemy aircraft near Alexandria. He reported the crew were in need of books and magazines of every sort as they were very scarce, as well as games and playing cards, sports gear and similar articles. In addition, blue and black stockings were very useful as they were part of their uniform and were in short supply. He also stated that a photograph of the ship was being sent under separate cover. It was hoped that the exigencies of the service would allow the ship to be sent to a home port, when perhaps visits to the ship could be arranged. In the meantime if there was any inhabitant who would like to have pen friends in their ship, he would be happy to arrange for an exchange of letters.
The clerk reported that he already had a number of books available to send to the ship. It was resolved that a copy of the letter be sent to each member of the council, to the parish councils, and the WRVS, and that they be asked to organise the collection of books and games for the ship, such collections to be sent to the council offices for despatch."
6 Jul 1943 Local Government Reorganisation
Local Government Reform Hartley, Eynsford, Horton Kirby, and Fawkham parish councils have supported the resolution of Darenth Parish Council on the issue.
3 Aug 1943 Planning: Joint Committee
Joint Town Planning Committee Dartford BC, Gravesend BC, Dartford RDC, Strood RDC, Northfleet UDC and Swanscombe UDC to discuss setting up a joint committee. Regional Planning Officer told them they would need to delegate their powers to this committee if it went ahead. Council agree in principle to join.
3 Aug 1943 National Trust
St John's Jerusalem, Sutton at Hone Council hears that Sir Stephen Tallents has presented the house to the National Trust. Vote of thanks to him passed.
3 Aug 1943 Fawkham Produce Show
Garden Shows Council grant £3 towards running of Fawkham Produce show.
3 Aug 1943 Harvest Volunteers
Harvest Volunteers Councillors told that there was no Volunteer Land Organisation office in DRDC, people told to go to Dartford Borough Office if interested.
3 Aug 1943 Horticultural Victory Show at Longfield
Agricultural and Horticultural Victory Garden Shows Longfield parish council are organising one on September 18th.
7 Sep 1943 Day, George (Councillor for Ash)
Mr George Day, deceased "The Chairman referred to the passing of Mr George Day since the last meeting of the council, and paid tribute to his work as a member of the council from its inception in 1894 until his retirement for reasons of health in 1938, during which time he had been chairman of the council from 1921 to 1936. He also referred to Mr Day's other public work in many spheres, including that of the late Board of Guardians and the Kent County Council, and referred in appreciative terms to the long service he had performed in the welfare of the public. Mr A Hewett and the Rev Stanley Morgan spoke in similar terms. The members then stood in silence as a token of respect. It was resolved that a letter of sympathy be sent to Mrs Day expressing sincere condolence for the loss she had sustained."
7 Sep 1943 HMS Gloxinia
HMS Gloxinia Clerk reported that some books and playing cards had been received and they have been promised a gramophone and records. WVS say they will knit comforts if they can get the wool.
7 Sep 1943 Gorsewood Road, Hartley: Plot Sales
Gorse Wood, Hartley "The Chairman reported that he understood the sale of plots of land was taking place in Gorse Wood, Hartley, and it was desirable that the development of the estate should be carefully controlled. The clerk reported that the land was zoned for agricultural purposes. It was resolved that the Chairman and Vice-Chairman, together with the surveyor and clerk, be authorised to inspect the area and report to the Town and Country Planning Committee."
5 Oct 1943 Church Road, Hartley: Stocks Farm
Housing Improvements under Housing Act 1936 include Hill Barn Bungalow, Fawkham (works completed), Le Stocks, ?June Hill', Hartley (new drains, soil pipes, bath, WC and cesspool completed).
5 Oct 1943 Churchdown Farm, Fawkham
Agriculture Notice to limewash walls of cowsheds at Churchdown Farm, Fawkham and Green Farm, Fawkham, under Milk and Dairies Order 1926.
5 Oct 1943 Salvage Stats
Salvage The following was collected in July and August: Rags (0.8 tons), sacking (0.4 tons), bottles (360), jars (5,472), miscellaneous metal (0.8 tons), black scrap (1.5 tons), bones (0.3 tons), clean paper (29.9 tons), rubber (1.7 tons), cullet (2 tons). Total value £218.19.1.
5 Oct 1943 War Emergency Paint
War Emergency Paint Ministry of Works have authorised the manufacture of 500,000 gallons of paint, of one colour only (dark brown), at 1s 9d a pint tin and 3s 6d a quart tin. It is only to be used to prevent deterioration of the exterior of dwellings and other civil property, and not for ordinary building maintenance. It will only be available from Dartford Co-op, Messrs J H Sankey & Sons, Dartford, and Messrs Edwards & Co (Longfield) Limited of Longfield.
5 Oct 1943 Chapelwood Road, Ash
Housing Surveyor reports work in progress on plan 3337 (Chapel Wood, Ash). Extended repairs being carried out to war damaged properties.
5 Oct 1943 Gorsewood Road, Hartley: Plot Sales
Gorse Wood Estate, Hartley "A joint inspection has been made with the Surveyor and Chairman, of properties. Wooden structures have been found erected without deposit of plans. Formal notices have been sent to the known owners."
5 Oct 1943 HMS Gloxinia
HMS Gloxinia 77 books, 26 packs of cards, 4 sets of draughts and board, 1 chess set and other days, 6 pairs of socks, 2 pairs of gloves and 1 helmet sent. Clerk reported that they couldn't get any wool and in any case the government has said that knitted comforts must be sent to a central fund and not to individual ships. In addition £6 11s 0d has been donated, from which additional articles will be bought.
2 Nov 1943 Infectious Diseases
Health In September 1943 there was 1 case of tuberculosis in Hartley, and 2 cases of whooping cough in Ash.
2 Nov 1943 Church Road, Hartley: Stocks Farm
Housing Surveyor reports new drains have been completed in September at Le Stocks, Hartley under the Public Health Act 1936.
2 Nov 1943 Churchdown Farm, Fawkham
Agriculture Works to cowshed and dairy at Green Farm and Churchdown Farm, Fawkham, now completed.
2 Nov 1943 Salvage Stats
Salvage September results were: Clean Paper (12 tons), sacking (0.5 tons), rags (0.6 tons), bones (56lb), rubber (1.4 tons), cullett (1 ton), miscellaneous metal (0.5 tons). Total value £89.19.6.
2 Nov 1943 Council Housing: Post War Plans
Post war housing Council have decided that the following sites would be the allocated the 200 houses they plan to build in the first year of reconstruction: Watchgate, Darenth (56), St James's Lane, Stone (66), Swanley (68), Hodsoll Street, Ash (10).
2 Nov 1943 Chapelwood Road, Ash
Housing completion Addition to wash house (plan 3337) at Chapelwood, Ash, now completed.
2 Nov 1943 War Damage
War damage Bomb blast on 7 October 1943 led to extensive window and roof damage in Darenth, Sutton at Hone and Hawley areas. First aid repairs immediately carried out and builders are continuing with further reinstatement. Further damage on 21 October 1943 in Southfleet area. First aid repairs carried out and extended work in progress.
2 Nov 1943 Gorsewood Road, Hartley: Plot Sales
Gorsewood Estate, Hartley "The Clerk reported that he had communicated with H R Wardill, Regional Planning Officer, who was attending at the council office on Tuesday the 9th instant at 10.45am to discuss the question of the procedure to be adopted to prevent unsatisfactory development in the future on the Gorsewood Estate, Hartley, and in any other part of the district where development is likely to occur."
2 Nov 1943 Aid to China
Aid to China fund Mr L U Judge wrote to say they had raised £2 12s 0d from a film show at Hartley Country Club. Other fundraising events planned in Darenth and Crockenhill.
2 Nov 1943 HMS Gloxinia
HMS Gloxinia 5th parcel sent by the council, containing books and games. A letter of thanks has been received from Lt-Commander Harkness, the officer commanding. The plaque from the ship will be loaned to Hartley Country Club for a function on the 20th November.
2 Nov 1943 Ambulance Station: Longfield
ARP The senior regional officer of the Ministry of Health, Mr A S Charlton, visited the district on 27th October, and visited the Longfield Ambulance Station, amongst others.
7 Dec 1943 Infectious Diseases
Health 48 cases of notifiable infectious diseases in October, including 1 case of pneumonia at Hartley, and one of scarlet fever at Longfield.
7 Dec 1943 Housing Improvements
Housing Improvements under Housing Act 1936 under way at Avondale, New Barn, and completed at 8 Bennets Avenue, Ash.
7 Dec 1943 Salvage Stats
Salvage Figures for October 1943 were Rags (0.9 tons), sacking (0.3 tons), miscellaneous metal (0.3 tons), bones (0.8 tons), clean paper (22.1 tons), rubber (1.4 tons), pig food (47 tons). Total value £120 18s 6d. Of this 7.4 tons collected by voluntary bodies. Ministry of Supply have analysed local authority returns and think DRDC is too low on bones and paper salvage. Council point out that hospitals and institutions in the district dispose of paper direct and the council can't get them to give figures. They will arrange for bins to be fixed at approved positions in the populous part of each parish to collect bones. They will ask parish councils for permission to fix bins to lamp posts.
7 Dec 1943 Vermin Destruction
Rats and mice Ministry of Food has written to remind councils of their power to deal with infestations and that they expect councils to use them. Council decide to pay 2d per rat's tail produced. District councillors or other duly authorised person to receive them on behalf of the council.
7 Dec 1943 Immunisation
Health Immunisations of children in October at Longfield clinic were diphtheria (2), whooping cough (1), both (1). Total in whole of DRDC 58.
2 Jan 1944 Housing Improvements
Housing Improvements under Public Health Act 1936 at Rose Marie, Ash Road, Hartley (drains cleansed), and 4 Billet Cottages, Ash (gutters cleansed to abate dampness).
2 Jan 1944 Vermin Destruction
Disinfestation of vermin at Boot Shop and adjoining property, Station Road, Longfield. Following premises visited, poison laid and advice given at Lynhurst, Hoselands Hill, Hartley; 2 Fairview, Fawkham, Greenlands; Brands Hatch Road, Fawkham.
2 Jan 1944 Salvage Stats
Salvage November's collection was clean paper (16.8 tons), black scrap (4.2 tons), sacking (0.5 tons), rags (0.8 tons), bones (0.3 tons), cullet (1.5 tons), kitchen waste (47 tons), brick dust (32 tons), miscellaneous metal (0.8 tons). Total value £107 6s 9d. 100 tons collected by council, 4 tons by voluntary organisations. Council has bought 150 tins to collect bones. Ministry of Supply say there is no need for compulsory powers now for ferrous scrap as they have enough to last ages.
2 Jan 1944 Petroleum Licences
Petroleum licenses Following licenses granted for 1944: (a) Southwark Council, Longfield Siding (300 gallons); (b) John Lewis, Scudders Farm, Fawkham (500 gallons); (c) F A Howe, Garage, Main Road, Longfield (2,000 gallons)
2 Jan 1944 Station Road, Longfield: Leeves Butchers
Slaughtermen licenses W Leeves of Station Road, Longfield given slaughterman and slaughterhouse license for 1944.
2 Jan 1944 Immunisation
Health Immunisations of children in November at Longfield clinic were diphtheria (0), whooping cough (2), both (1). Total in whole of DRDC 64.
1 Feb 1944 Infectious Diseases
Health During December there were 37 cases of notifiable diseases, including 1 case of pneumonia at Ash and 1 case of scabies at Ash.
1 Feb 1944 Gorsewood Road, Hartley: Solly's Bungalow
Solly's Bungalow, Gorsewood Road, Hartley Council has served demolition order under the Housing Act 1936.
1 Feb 1944 Ash Road, Hartley: Hartley House
Housing Hartley House, Hartley treated with poison to deal with rats or mice.
1 Feb 1944 Tuberculosis in Cattle
Agriculture Health officer has taken 7 milk samples during the last month in the district. One cow was found to have tuberculosis and was slaughtered.
1 Feb 1944 Sunday Cinema
Sunday Entertainments Act 1932 The council decide on the charities to benefit from the £164 1s 7d paid by the Corona Cinema, Swanley under the act. The chosen charities include Ash and District Nursing Association (£10), Longfield and District Nursing Association (£10), WRVS for provision of wool for comforts for the troops (£10), Prisoners of War Fund (£15).
1 Feb 1944 War Damage
War damage "Enemy action caused damage to properties in the Kingsdown and Abbots Wood, Ash areas during the month. Repairs have been carried out by builders.
1 Feb 1944 Planning: Joint Committee
Thamesside Development Board Council decide to join. TDB was founded in 1936 to encourage develop land along the Thames between the Port of London Authority and Shoeburyness.
1 Feb 1944 Castle Hill, Hartley: Valley Wood
Housing Loan under Small Dwellings Acquisition Acts to Mr F O Comont has been discharged. (This relates to Valley Wood, Castle Hill, loan of £280 was taken out in 1931).
7 Mar 1944 Gorsewood Road, Hartley: Solly's Bungalow
Housing Demolition order notice affixed to front of Solly's Bungalow, Gorsewood Road, Hartley.
7 Mar 1944 Salvage Stats
Salvage The following has been collected in the district in January: Clean Paper (12.6 tons), Bones (0.6 tons), Kitchen Waste (43 tons), Brick Dust (39.5 tons). Total value £76.3.2. Others will be recorded when it is collected from the depot next month.
7 Mar 1944 Salvage: House to House Canvas
A circular letter has been received from the Ministry of Supply, stating that during the coming months there will be an urgent need for keeping industry supplied with raw materials required for direct war production and other essential purposes, and accordingly the nation must be called upon to make available to the utmost, all salvage materials, in particular, waste paper, rags and bones. The circular states that the WVS have agreed to cooperate with local authorities by undertaking a personal house to house canvas at an early date, such canvas to be supported with national publicity in the form of broadcasts, radio flashes, film trailers etc, and asking local authorities to arrange fro maximum local publicity by whatever means are available.
7 Mar 1944 Road Signs to be Reerected
Road signs "Direction and signposts. The council will remember that representations were made by them to the county council for direction and sign posts to be reerected in view of the improved military situation. Your committee have now been informed by the County Council that direction and sign posts may now be reerected irrespective of previous restrictions and that they should be sited so as to take full advantage at night of masked headlamps. The surveyor has accordingly been instructed to reerect the direction and sign posts in the Rural District.
7 Mar 1944 War Time Nurseries: Longfield
War time nurseries Only Stone and Swanley are mentioned, so it appears the proposed one at Longfield was never proceeded with.
7 Mar 1944 Air Raids
ARP "Your committee has expressed their appreciation of the satisfactory manner in which all services have operated in connection with the recent enemy air attacks. They are also happy to report that letters of appreciation have been received from local inhabitants and others expressing their thanks for the assistance which the civil defence organisation and ancilliary services have rendered."
7 Mar 1944 Finance: Precept 1944
Rates precept 1944-1945 The district and country rate will be 12s 1d in the pound (of which Kent County Council's precept is 10s 0.25d) with additional parish rates of 1d (Ash, Hartley) and 2d (Longfield). Ridley and Fawkham have not levied a rate.
7 Mar 1944 HMS Gloxinia
HMS Gloxinia Parcels 8 and 9 despatched to the ship containing 28 Records, 1 box gramophone needles, 32 books, 2 lexicons, 2 draughts, 2 dominoes, 2 jigsaws and a pack of cards.
7 Mar 1944 War Damage
War damage "Enemy action caused damage to properties in Swanley, Hextable, Darenth, Sutton at Hone, Wilmington and Stone districts. First aid repairs were immediately carried out and work is proceeding on extended repairs."
7 Mar 1944 Greater London Plan
Planning of the London Area "A communication from the Clerk of the Kent County Council has been received referred to the Conference held at Bromley on the 7th April 1943 when Professor Abercrombie undertook to ask the County Council to call representatives of the local authorities concerned together at a future date, when he had some definite proposals to put forward for consideration. The county Council understand that it now appears unlikely that Professor Abercrombie intends to submit any proposals to a Conference of Kent Local Authorities prior to the submission of his completed plan to the government, and that the County Council desire all local authorities in Kent who were invited to the meeting at Bromley to be made aware of the present position. Your committee recommend that the County Council be informed that the District Council would welcome a conference to be attended by Professor Abercrombie to consider and express views and recommendations on any proposals made by Professor Abercrombie for the planning of the London area, and that the County Council be asked to press for such a conference accordingly."
4 Apr 1944 Housing Improvements
Housing Notices under Housing Act 1936 served on the owner of 1-3, Leyland, Suncroft, Woodside, Pinedale, Pineview, St Margarets and St Francis, Abbots Wood, Ash. Work in hand on 1,2,5-8 Abbots Wood, Ash. Drains cleansed at The Rising Sun, Fawkham, under Public Health Act 1936. Infestation of rats or mice dealt with at Strawstacks, Hartley Bottom.
4 Apr 1944 Salvage Stats
salvage March return was Clean Paper (12.5 tons), Black Scrap (1.6 tons), miscellaneous metal (0.8 tons), rags (0.5 tons), sacking (1.5 tons), bones (0.3 tons), records (5 shillings' worth), brickdust (37 tons), kitchen waste (45.5 tons). Total value £92 9s 2d.
4 Apr 1944 Speedgate, Fawkham: Milk Tests
Milk Bacteriological tests at Speedgate, Fawkham and at Ash were very satisfactory. Local authorities are unhappy with proposals for the government to take over many of their regulatory functions relating to milk production.
4 Apr 1944 Medway Crematorium
Crematorium Medway authorities are proposing a crematorium between Medway and Maidstone to serve that area. It has been suggested Gravesend and Dartford area authorities do the same for their area.
4 Apr 1944 War Damage
War damage "Enemy action caused damage to properties in various parts fo the district on the 2nd and 22nd March 1944. First Aid repairs have been carried out. Extended work will be proceeded with as labour becomes available."
4 Apr 1944 Planning: Joint Committee
North Kent Joint Town Planning Committee the council consider the draft constitution. The area will be the boroughs/districts of Dartford, Gravesend, Northfleet, Swanscombe, Crayford, Dartford Rural, Strood Rural. Each authority to have 3 representatives as will Kent County Council. Most of the costs will be met by the County Council. They will be to prepare a joint scheme or schemes for town planning. DRDC will send all planning applications under the Planning Acts 1932-1943 for recommendations, but are not bound by the decision. Council ratify the constitution and appoint Captain C S Bignell of Hartley as one of their first 3 representatives.
4 Apr 1944 Gas Masks
ARP: Inspection of Respirators Council have checked 16,500 gas masks under free repair scheme which ended on 29 February. 2,500 repairs or replacements carried out. Condition of them was extremely good in residential areas, but only fair in industrial areas. "Your committee regret to report that the public response for the free repair of Respirators during the early part of the period was apathetic and in many sectors it necessitated the wardens conducting house to house inspections."
4 Apr 1944 Civil Defence Flag
Civil Defence Flag Flag presented to council's Civil Defence Services by County Alderman Major M T Kirby, DSO. It had been blessed by Canon W Parker of Longfield.
4 Apr 1944 Military Protected Area
Military Protected Area DRDC area is part of the area declared by the Secretary of State for War, which extends from the Wash to Lands End. With certain exceptions it means only residents may enter the area.
4 Apr 1944 Mains Sewerage: Hartley, Ash & Longfield
Sewerage and Sewage Disposal Schemes "A letter from the Kent County Council was read. Dated the 29th ultimo, stating that the County Council was about to give consideration to the question of projects which might be considered to be desirable to be undertaken in the immediate post war period, and that in the event of the County Council being asked to give financial assistance they desired to know whether the council had any schemes in contemplation, and if so, to forward particulars to the County Council.
The clerk referred to suggestions which had been made from time to time of laying a sewer from the parish of Ash, through Hartley and Longfield, to link up at Darenth, which could possibly also take Southfleet, and the Bean ward of Stone, as well as a sewer from Kingsdown to link up with the sewer at Farningham. If such sewers were ultimately constructed, the sewage would have to flow into the sewers of the Darenth valley Main Sewerage Board. These connections could not be made until the area under the jurisdiction of that Board was extended to include the parishes referred to. The Sewerage Board would have to give consideration not only to the extension of the Council's district, but of other districts within their jurisdiction, and whether the existing sewer would be capable of taking the added flow. It was resolved that the County Council be informed that although the Council had no immediate project in mind an extension of the sewers in the Council's district was under consideration and that the matter be referred to the Public Health Committee with instructions to investigate the possibility of sewers in some, or all, of the parishes referred to by the Clerk."
4 Apr 1944 Council Housing: Post War Plans
Post War Housing Gravesend Council has written to say, while they are working on proposals to build 108 houses on land they own, it might be possible to build 2,000 houses on a site in North Kent. They said it would need careful consideration and invited DRDC and others to informal talk, which DRDC agrees to attend.
4 Apr 1944 HMS Gloxinia
HMS Gloxinia They have received a letter of thanks from the new commander of the ship. He sent pictures of the ship and crew. The council will frame them and put them up in the entrance hall, they will offer copies to any parish council who wants one.
4 Apr 1944 Roads: Tar
Roads Council agrees with quotation for tar from South Metropolitan Gas Company at 7d per gallon net in multiples of twenty 40 gallon casks, subject to permits from the Ministry of War Transport.
2 May 1944 Electricity Supply: Nationalisation
"Post War Reconstruction - Electricity Supply Services. In accordance with notice previously given, Mr H W Lee moved the following resolution, viz:
(1) Owing to the present unsatisfactory state of affairs in the distribution of electricity, due to the number of distributing companies and unequal tariffs, the power to supply should be transferred to public ownership as envisaged in the Acts of Parliament governing electricity supply.
(2)That the distributio of electricity should be controlled by local authorities, the country being divided into supply areas, large enough to allow distribution to be planned scientifically and economically, but of such a size as to allow democratic representation and control practicable.
(3) That the standardisation of voltage and suppy should be completed as soon as possible after the termination of hostilities.
(4) That charges should be standardised as far as possible.
(5) That there should be a guaranteed electricity supply in rural areas as outlined in the report of the Scott Committee."
[Copies to be sent to government, MPs etc]
"The motion was seconded by Mr Rogers and supported by Mr Hewett and the Rev Stanley Morgan. The motion as being put was declared carried unanimously."
2 May 1944 Housing: Factory Made Houses
Mrs K Wood to attend on behalf of the council, an exhibition to be held at Millbank, London, next to Tate Gallery.
6 Jun 1944 Health Clinics
Attendance at Longfield Ante-natal clinic - 3 (Southfleet 9, Risely 38, Stone 10, Swanley 19). No immunisations at Longfield. In past month the three council health visitors have made an average of 200 visits each.
Figures from the Ministry of Health show poor take up of supplements for expectant mothers. Nationally take up of cod liver oil was 26.1%, fruit juice 50.3% and vitamin A and D tablets 41.6%. Council thought more people might take the cod liver oil if it were in a capsule!
4 Jul 1944 Salvage Stats
June 1944 - (by council) Clean Paper 11.9 tons, Rags 0.5 tons, sacking 0.4 tons, bones 0.6 tons, bottles 360, jars 3312, cullet 3 tons, misc metal 1 ton, kitchen waste 43.5 tons, brickdust 24 tons. (by voluntary organisations) Clean paper 3.3 tons, rags 1.5 tons, bones 0.1 tons, kitchen waste 12 tons. Income for council £97.0.6.
4 Jul 1944 Water Supply: Drought Order
The part of the district in the Metropolitan Water Board area is now subject to hosepipe ban due to drought.
[Council meeting of 7/11/1944 noted that the Drought Order was lifted on 1/11/44]
4 Jul 1944 Crematoriums
Local authorities in Gravesend and Dartford area agreed to recommend a joint crematorium for the area.
1 Aug 1944 Vermin Destruction
Verminous premises treated in July include 6 Bennetts Avenue, Ash; Cross House Fawkham treated for rats.
1 Aug 1944 Salvage Stats
July 1944 - (by council) Clean Paper 18.8 tons, Rags 0.7 tons, sacking 0.3 tons, bones 0.2 tons, bottles 0.4 tons, jars 0.2 tons, kitchen waste 47.5 tons, brickdust 15 tons. (by voluntary organisations) Clean paper 2.3 tons, bones 0.1 tons, kitchen waste 8.2 tons. Income for council £130.19.1
1 Aug 1944 Barage Balloons
Land at Green Street Green requisitioned for what council believe will be a barage balloon. They won't seek compensation unless damage is done. [Following derequisitioning of this site and Westminster Mills, Horton Kirby, council decide to make no claim as no damage occurred.]
1 Aug 1944 Health Clinics: Stats
2 attendances at the Longfield clinic in July. 1 whooping cough and 3 combined whooping cough and diptheria immunisations at Longfield
1 Aug 1944 Evacuation from Dartford Rural District
"The clerk reported that since the last meeting of the council, the district had been made an Evacuation Area under the government scheme as and from the 5th ultimo; that the registration of unaccompanied school children took place through the schools on Friday and Saturday, the 7th and 8th ultimo, with medical examination on the 9th, and departures on the 10th and 11th, and that a total of 898 children had been evacuated. The registration of mother and young children commenced on the 11th July and the first organised evacuation took place on the [..] July, and subsequent evacuations had taken place on the 15th, 18th, 21st, 22nd, 25th and [...] ultimo, and 1st instant. A total of 1,010 persons had been evacuated since the evacuation of school children, and 618 persons had evacuated themselves under private arrangements. The [....] had been despatched to various centres in the south west of England.
A letter from the Clerk to the Yeovil Rural District Council was read, expressing appreciation for the care taken in sending the children in such a satisfactory condition, and stating that it would be the council's endeavour to see that the children were treated with kindness, sympathy and understanding.
A letter from the Secretary and Superintendent of the homes for Little Boys, Farningham, was also read stating that he had visited their evacuated boys in Someset and Devon and wanted to express his warmest appreciation of the help received from the Clerk and his staff and the Evacuation Officer, and giving details of the arrangements made for the boys from the two homes at Farningham and Hextable. Mr Bell desired to convey, on behalf of his committee [....] Clerk, Mr A E Rogers, and all concerned, their profound gratitude, congratulations, and sincere thanks for the splendid arrangements made so promptly to evacuate their boys to safer areas.
A letter from Mrs W Bailey was read, dated the 16th ultimo, informing the council of the wonderful reception the evacuees had waiting for them at St Austell and expressing the appreciation for all that had been done.
Reports of the train marshals and helpers were also submitted, each stating in appreciative terms the arrangements made for their reception and billeting.
The Clerk further reported that the arrangements for evacuation were not without difficulties, but that splendid help had been received from the members of the Women's Voluntary Services, teachers and helpers who had undertaken to act at the registration centres set up in the district; also from individuals who had assisted in the entraining arrangements and medical examination of children, particularly Miss Bates, Health Visitor, Mr Arlidge, headmaster at Swanley Schools; the Civil Defence Service who arranged transport, and the London Passenger Transport Board.
On the proposition of Mrs Davis, it was resolved that a vote of thanks be passed to the Clerk, Mr A E Rogers, and the staff for the efficient and diplomatic manner in which the evacuation had been carried through.
It was also resolved that the council express their appreciation of the valued services rendered by the Women's Voluntary Services and other helpers in assisting the evacuation.
Mr Tanner produced a letter from the vice chairman of the Horton Kirby Parish Council with regard to complaints relating to two families who were arranging private evacuation, and of the difficulties which they had encountered.
Mr Rogers explained the working of the system which had been put into operation. The council approved the procedure."
1 Aug 1944 Morgan, Rev Stanley (councillor)
Congratulations for 50 years in public life from fellow councillors.
1 Aug 1944 War Casualties
The county councillor for Ash etc, Mr G E Leavey of South Ash Manor, has been killed in action in Normandy. Lieut R S J Hicks of the council housing department was killed in action in Normandy on 29th June.
3 Oct 1944 Civil Registration
July/August - Births (69): Hartley 2, Longfield 7, Ash 2, Fawkham 2. Deaths (87): Hartley 2, Longfield 4, Ash 0, Fawkham 2, Southern Hospital 25.
3 Oct 1944 Salvage Stats
July/Aug 1944 - (by council) Clean Paper 23.1 tons, Rags 1.1 tons, sacking 0.5 tons, bones 0.6 tons, jars 6.9 tons, non-ferrous metals 0.1 tons, misc metals 0.1 tons, rubber 2.9 tons, kitchen waste 97 tons, brickdust 34.5 tons. (by voluntary organisations) Clean paper 2.5 tons, bones 1.2 tons, kitchen waste 21 tons. Income for council £184.15.11. Council has been told there is no need to collect rubber now.
3 Oct 1944 Factory Made Houses
Council has applied for 200 homes, divided at 50 each for Swanley, Stone, Darenth and Horton Kirby/surrounding parishes
7 Nov 1944 Air Raids
Statistics of Enemy Damage and Casualties in the Area: Set out hereunder is a statement giving details of the number of bombs which have been dropped in the Dartford Rural District since the outbreak of war, up to an including the 17th October 1944, together with the number of casualties and damaged properties.
High Explosive Bombs 5,359
AA Shells 395
Parachute Mines 19
G Mines 3
Oil Bombs 191
Phosphorus Incendiary Bombs 55
Incendiary Bombs Containers 248 (approx 200,000)
Flying Bombs 74
SDI Anti-Personnel 392.
Alerts 1,163
Incidents 1,894
Casualties: Fatal 49; Serious 81; Slight 232. Total 362 (approx 1% of population). Casualties from Flying Bombs: No fatal, 105 injured, included as above.
Houses destroyed 49
Houses where demolition necessary 50
Houses seriously damaged but occupied 498
Houses seriously damaged and evacuated 209
Houses slightly damaged 6,148.
Your committee have obtained approval from the scheme making authority to the publication of the information.
[A note pinned to the minutes says "Last printed list. Mr James has copy of final list in file"].
7 Nov 1944 Invasion Precautions
"Invasion Precautions - Triumvirates. A communication has been received from the Regional Commissioner, stating that His Majesty's Government had now decided that the time has come to terminate the wrok of the Triumvirates, and that they wish to thank the local authorities for the part they have played in the scheme, and also to thank the civil members of the triumvirates for their valuable work and assistance." Council sends their own letters of thanks to civil members.
7 Nov 1944 Fire Watching
"Instructions have been received from the Regional Commissioner that consequent upon the de-prescription of the Rural area for the purposes of Fire Guard Orders, whole time members of the Fire Guard Staff should be given notice to terminate their employment with the council."
Farewell to Fireguards event held at Stone House Hospital on 4 November.
7 Nov 1944 Bombing
"Mr H W Lee called attention to the incidents which had occurred at Crockenhill, due to enemy action, and to the very valuable assistance which had been rendered by members of the United States Army. It was rsolved that an expressio of the council's thanks be conveyed to the members of the US Army accordingly." [Probably refers to V2 attack on Crockenhill in September 1944]
7 Nov 1944 Water Supply at Hartley
"Invasion Precautions. Emergency Water Arrangements. The chairman called attention to two cases in the parish of Hartley in which temporary arrangements had been made for the storage of water for emergency purposes, and that as these were now no longer required it was advisable that the original conditions should be restored in order to allow for the more easy disposal of surface water. The surveyor was instructed to arrange for the restoration in consultation with the Council's Chief Sanitary Inspector."
7 Nov 1944 Evacuation from Dartford Rural District
"It was reported that the government had decided that unaccompanied children, and mothers with young children, who had been evacuated from the area should now be returned, and details were given of the arrangements which were to be made in order that they might be returned by the middle of December.
It was resolved that the council protest to the Ministry of Health on the grounds that having regard to the incidents which are occurring in the district at the present time, it was not opportune for the return to this area of the persons who had been evacuated."
5 Dec 1944 Employees: Percy Leonard Harris
"Finance Department. Mr Percy Leonard Harris, aged 44 years, of Beulah, Hartley, has been appointed a temporary clerical assistant in the Finance Department to fill an existing vacancy, at a salary of £200 pa, together with such war bonus as may be granted by the council from time to time, and payment for extended office hours, if worked, in accordance with the council's resolution thereon, the appointment to be for a period not exceeding 2 years in the first instance, adn to one month's notice on either side."
5 Dec 1944 Education Act 1944
Hartley, with Longfield, Ash and Fawkham to be in Kent County Council's No 4 (Gravesend) Division.
5 Dec 1944 Petroleum Licences
9 applications granted, including William Leeves, Station Road, Longfield (500 gallons)
5 Dec 1944 Council Housing: Post War Plans
Following initial plans for 200 houses in year 1 of post war period, they plan another 200 houses in the 2nd year - Stone St John's Lane 80, Swanley 50, Horton Kirby - Saxon Place 30, Crockenhill - Newports 40
5 Dec 1944 Council Housing: Temporary Houses
Council has allocation of 100, decided to erect 50 at Stone and the other 50 at Wilmington or Horton Kirby.
5 Dec 1944 Sewer Extensions
"Your committee have given consideration to the report submitted by the clerk, arising out of the report made by the chief sanitary inspector on suggested sewer extensions.
The suggested extensions of main sewers, together with the necessary branch sewers are as follows (Estimated Costs):
(i) Kingsdown (west side to Farningham Boundary - Main Sewers £14,000, Branch Sewers £1,000, Loan charges at 3¼ per cent £800
(ii) Hartley, Longfield & Darenth - £46,000, £1,000, £2,500
(iii) Ash & Fawkham to link with (ii) at Longfield - £33,000, £1,000, £1,780
(iv) Bean to link up with Stone outfall works - £15,500, £0, £800
(v) Birchwood Road, Wilmington - £8,000, £0, £420
(vi) Southfleet (would have to be separate sewerage scheme)
Total - £116,500, £3,000, £6,300
Your committee recommend that the council agree, in principle, to the provision of sewers in the parishes shown in the foregoing paragraph and that the work be carried out in such order as the council decide and circumstances permit. It will be necessary for application to be made to the Darenth Valley Main Sewerage Board for those parishes included in (i) to (iii) to be included in their sewerage scheme. Your committee therefore recommend that the necessary application be made for the respective parishes to be included within the area of the Board, as and when the sewers are laid....."
Approved by council.
5 Dec 1944 Civil Defence: Reductions in staff
New complement agreed by council means a reduction of 18 full time staff (10 wardens, 7 rescue, 1 control):
Wardens (12 FT, 448 PT, 18 Depots/Posts)
Rescue (22 FT, 69 PT, 3 posts)
Report & Control Centres (5 FT, 14PT, 1 post)
Messengers (26 PT)
Mobile First Aid Posts (21 PT, 1 post)
Ambulances (6 FT, 36 PT)
5 Dec 1944 Evacuation from Dartford Rural District
"The Clerk referred to … the minutes of the 7th November and stated that a letter had now been received from the Minister of Health, dated the 29th ultimo, stating that the representations made by the council against the return of evacuees had received the Minister's careful attention. He had also examined in detail the record of incidents arising from recent enemy attacks in the district, and having regard to the limited number and to the fact that the casualties had been very light indeed, the Minister did not feel that the Government would be warranted in reversing the decision that evacuees should now return to this area. The situation would, of course, continue to be watched closely and should conditions indicate the necessity, it could again be reviewed.
The Clerk reported that a number of evacuees would be returning in teh course of the next few days and arrangements had to be made for their dispersal to their homes and for the necessary transport to be provided. The services of the London Passenger Transport Board would be obtained, with the consent of the Ministry of War Transport, but it would also be necessary to use Civil Defence transport and the WVS Volunteer Car Pool to take the evacuees from the dispersal points to their homes.
The Chairman and sub-controller stated that arrangements could be made for the use of Civil Defence Transport".
2 Jan 1945 Bus Services and Time Tables
"Your committee have received a full report on the meeting held between representatives of the council, certain parish councils, and the London Passsenger Transport Board, when complaints and suggestions received by the council with regard to the bus services and the time tables thereof were fully discussed.
As a result of such meeting the LPTB have agreed to meet most of the requests made by the council and the parish councils, and have given good reasons why the remaining requests cannot be granted.
Your committee desire to express their appreciation of the action of the representatives of the LPTB in dealing with the complaints and requests made with a view to the improvement and maintenance of an efficient bus service in this district.
A letter has been received from the Hartley Parish Council asking that the Ministry of War Transport should be requested to remove the curfew in respect of the late running of buses in the Rural District.
Your committee are in sympathy with this view and recommend that the LPTB be asked to reinstate, and the Ministry of War Transport requested to allow the reinstatement of the Green Line service and evening bus services in the Rural District." Approved by full council.
2 Jan 1945 War Damage
"In an incident which occurred on the 12th December, 12 houses at New Barn suffered serious blast damage to roofs and windows, and at least 40 other houses were damaged to a lesser degree. 46 builder's workmen were called out to carry out repairs. First aid repairs are now completed.
Since the beginning of the fly-bomb attacks up to November 12th, 10 houses have been damaged beyond repair, 185 have been seriously damaged and a further 2,972 slightly damaged. First aid repairs have been carried out on 3,117 of these, a further 20 of the more seriously damaged have been made habitable and work is in hand on another 15. In addition to the temporary repairs, futher work, including repairs to damaged ceilings and reglazing windows is being carried out to as many damaged houses as possible. An average labour force of 180 men is employed in full time work on war damage repairs."
2 Jan 1945 Land at Longfield, Fawkham and Hartley
"The clerk reported that representatives of the council had discussed with the senior Regional Officer of the Ministry of Health the acquisition of land in Hartley, Fawkham and Longfield, which had been offered to the council. The site had been inspected by representatives of the Ministry of Agriculture and of Town and Country Planning, as well as the Regional Architect of the Ministry of Health. No objection on their part would be raised to its acquisition, and the opinion was expressed that the site lent itself to a desirable lay out. It had been suggested that part of the land could possibly be offered to the Kent Education Committee as a site for a new school in that area, and that the remainder could be utilised as a site for part of the post war 10 year housing scheme.
The clerk also reported he had already communicated with the Kent Education Committee asking them if they would favourably consider the acquisition of part of the land if purchased by the council.
It was resolved that steps be taken to extend the option on the land, with a view to the purchase, providing the district valuer's valuation approximated tot he proposed purchase price."
[This is very likely to be the land associated with Old Downs, which was eventually sold in 1953 to Ron Billings for £6,000. This extended between Castle Hill and the Railway.]
6 Feb 1945 Sunday Cinema
Contributions by Corona Cinema, Swanley under Sunday Entertainments Act 1932 are £113.11.7 for 1944. Council gives the money to a number of charities, including Ash and District Nursing Association (£7), Longfield Nursing Association (£7)
6 Feb 1945 Measles Outbreak
34 cases in the district in December 1944, including Hartley (2), Longfield (2), Fawkham (1).
6 Feb 1945 Immunisation
3 children receive combined Whooping Cough and Diptheria Vaccination at Longfield
6 Mar 1945 Finance: Precept
General Rate for 1945-46 to rise from 12s 1d in the pound to 13s 6d. Additional items - Hartley (1d), Longfield (3d), Ash (1d), Fawkham (1d), Ridley (nil)
6 Mar 1945 Housing: Action by Council
Work at Abbots Wood, Ash halted due to labour shortage. Notice served re 1-3 The Drive, Longfield re general defects
6 Mar 1945 War Damage
Various packets of salt, mustard, marmite, soup powder, Fray Bentos fish paste, sugar, pudding mixture, anchovy paste and egg subsitute destroyed as a result of splash from 4 pint bottles of ammonia following enemy action. Thanks sent to US Army for help in recent incidents
6 Mar 1945 Salvage: Stats
February 1945: (Council) Clean Paper 6.7 tons, rags 0.6 tons, bones 0.1 tons, kitchen waste 43.5 tons, ashes for brickmaking 15 tons, bottles 0.1 tons, cullett 1.5 tons. (Voluntary Organisations) Clean Paper 1.3 tons, rags 0.8 tons, bones 0.1 tons. Council earned £51.17.8 from their collection.
6 Mar 1945 Rubbish Collection and Cesspool Emptying
Delays due to weather and staff sickness.
"At the time of writing this report 51 applications have been received to empty cesspools, 37 of which are from Longfield, Hartley and Kingsdown. Application has been made to the Ministry of Labour for men, but refuse collectors are graded Q on the priority list, and there seems little hope of obtaining suitable men. Every effort will be made to reduce the arrears by working overtime as the daylight lengthens."
6 Mar 1945 Civil Defence: Reductions in staff
Council sell surplus Bedford Mobile Unit, registration CMK477 to Messrs Baldwin Brothers of Delsrop, North Ash.
6 Mar 1945 Roads: Post War Improvements
"Your committee recommend that the road improvements suggested by the Surveyor be submitted to the Kent County Council with a recommendation for their execution as early as possible in the post-war period, with the addition of the following improvements viz 1. Ash Road, Hartley near Black Lion...." Surveyor's list:
1 Gore Road widening, Darenth
2 Footpath to Farningham Road
3 St John's Lane widening, Hartley
4 Cray Road corner, Crockenhill
5 Church Road widening, Hartley
6 Crockenhill Lane widening, Eynsford
7 Eynsford Road, Valley View Bend
8 Footpath to school from War Memorial, Hartley
9 Ladenhatch widening to A20
10 Parsonage Lane widening, Darenth
11 Birchwood Road footpath, Wilmington.
6 Mar 1945 Hoselands Hill, Hartley: bend at bottom of hill
"mr Wright called attention to a much needed widening at the foot of Hoselands Hill where there was a bend of the road by the Rectory Cottages. It was arranged that the surveyor inspect the spot and report to the next meeting of the Highways Committee."
6 Mar 1945 Kent Road, Longfield: Eversleigh
Mr H Bushnell has paid off mortgage to council on this property
6 Mar 1945 HMS Gloxinia
"A letter from the commanding officer of HMS Gloxinia was read, dated the 14th February, stating that the wireless and gramophone records supplied by the War Amenities Fund had now reached them; that the set was specially desinged for ships of HMS Gloxinia type and had been wired to loud speakers leading to various parts of the Mess Desks. This arrangemetn had greatly increased the facilities for news and entertainment for the crew. Regret was expressed at the difficulties and trials caused by enemy action in the district and the crew wished to convey to the counicl and the citizens of the Rural district how greatly they admired thier fortitude, and sincerely hoped that the immediate future would bring peace and normality.
The Clerk reported that parcel no 13 had been despatched to the ship, consisting of 52 books, a banjo, gramophone records and a number of games."
1 May 1945 Salvage: Stats
April 1945 collected by council: Clean Paper 7.9 tons, bones 0.2 tons, bottles 1,008, Black Scrap 2.6 tons, Cullett 1.5 tons, Kitchen Waste 42 tons, Ashes for Brickmaking 17 tons. Income £60.18.9
1 May 1945 Water Charges
"Mid Kent Water Company - Your committee are informed that the Mid Kent Water Company have removed the high level water rate charge as from the 1st instant, which was previously charged in respect of those parishes served by the Mid Kent Water Company in the Council's Area
1 May 1945 Infectious Diseases
Health 3 cases of measles at Longfield and 1 at Hartley, 1 case of pneumonia at Hartley and 2 cases of scarlet fever at Longfield.
1 May 1945 Salvage Stats
Salvage In the last month the following has been collected: Clean paper (7.85 tons), bones (0.15 tons), bottles (1,008), black scrap (2.64 tons), cullett (1.5 tons), kitchen waste (42 tons), ashes for brickmaking (17 tons).
1 May 1945 Water Rates
Water "Your committee are informed that the Mid-Kent Water Company have removed the high water rate charge as from the 1st instant, which was previously charged in respect of those parishes served by the Mid-Kent Water Company in the Council's area."
1 May 1945 HMS Gloxinia
HMS Gloxinia "A letter from the Commanding Officer of HMS Gloxinia was read stating that the ship had finally returned to home waters, and that when the periods of leave of the men had expired and they were less busily employed, they were anxious that an officer and a number of ratings should visit Dartford to express personally to the Council their gratitude for the many kindnesses the district had shewn to the members of the crew in the past. It was reported that a reply had been sent stating the dates of the council meetings, and the members of the council would be glad to meet an officer and a number of ratings."
1 May 1945 Victory Celebrations
Victory celebrations The council have received a letter from the Minister authorising any reasonable expenditure for local celebrations. "A letter from the Home Office was read, dated the 30th ultimo, giving information as to the manner in which the end of hostilities would be announced, of the proposal to open churches of all denominations for services and private prayer, that the Sunday following VE Day, should be observed as a day of thanksgiving and prayer, that full public lighting could not yet be restored due to the restriction on fuel, but bonfires could be allowed provided material of no salvage value was used, that businesses selling and distributing food should remain open for a few hours on VE Day and that on Thanksgiving Sunday, the government thought it appropriate that local authorities should organise victory parades, either in connection with the local services of thanksgiving, or later int eh day, such parades to include as many aspects as possible of the national effort." Council agreed to give parishes the equivalent of a 2d rate provided that any other expense does not come out of the parish rates but by local subscription.
5 Jun 1945 Salvage Stats
Salvage In the last month the following has been collected: Clean paper (12.44 tons), rags (19.5 tons), bottles (960), kitchen waste (60.3 tons), ashes for brickmaking (17.5 tons), metal (0.25 tons), bones (0.15 tons). Most collected by council but some by voluntary organisations.
5 Jun 1945 Civil Registration: Longfield
Registration of Births, Deaths and Marriages KCC have revised their opening times in the Darent Valley sub-district: 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of each month - West Kingsdown 10-11, Longfield 11.30 - 12.30, Southfleet 1-1.30. Attendance at Ash to be discontinued.
5 Jun 1945 Petroleum Licences
Petroleum Licenses C M Ellerby of Fairby Hill, Hartley, agricultural contractor, given licence to keep 250 gallons in the yard at the back.
5 Jun 1945 Civil Defence Parade
ARP "Wing Commander Sir John Hodsoll, the Inspector General of Home Security, together with Col J H Campbell, the county ARP Controller and other county officials, met the Emergency Committee a the Civil Defence Headquarters, Avenue House, South Darenth, on the 3rd instant, after which Sir John Hodsoll inspected a representative parade of Civil Defence personnel. Communications have since been received from Sir John Hodsoll by the sub-controller and the ARP officer expressing his thanks for the kindness and hospitality shown to him on his visit, and stating that the Rural District has had to meet as heavy a scale of attack as probably any district in the country, and that he had never heard anything but the warmest possible praise for the work which has been done by the council's Civil Defence services."
5 Jun 1945 Civil Defence Disbanding
Communications have been received from the Ministry of Home Security giving instructions for the disbandment of the war organisation of the Civil Defence Services. In accordance with these instructions, notice has been given to whole-time paid members of the services to terminate their employment on the 1st July 1945, and steps are being taken to close all wardens' posts, first aid posts, rescue party depots etc. Your committee are also arranging for the dismantling of the various wooden huts, used as wardens' posts, and for their storage at the housing stores. The work of collection of equipment is proceeding and the rescue parties are also engaged on reinstating premises not owned by the council, but which have been used for civil defence purposes.
3 Jul 1945 War Damage
War Damage Repairs completed this month to seriously damaged The Grove, Woodlea, New Barn, by builder G Russell & Son. Repairs in hand to the following other damaged properties: The Spinney, Orchard Cottage, Kine Dart, May Cate, Dunbar and Clevis, Main Road, New Barn; Knockfarren, Fawkham Avenue, New Barn; Haven Cottage, Hodsoll Street, Ash.
3 Jul 1945 Salvage Stats
Salvage Figures for last month were: Clean Paper (8.46 tons), Bones (0.33 tons), Kitchen Waste (45 tons), Ashes for Brickmaking (15.5 tons).
3 Jul 1945 Salvage Incentives
A communication has been received from the Ministry of Supply stating that with the cessation of hostilities in Europe the need for salvaging waste paper is no less urgent than before, but there has been a noticeable falling off in appeals to householders to make waste paper available as salvage. With a view to increasing supplies of waste paper, the Ministry have decided to offer to local authorities until further notice, but not longer than 1 year, an incentive in the form of a payment of £1 per ton in respect of every ton of waste paper sold by the local authority to licensed waste paper merchants or mills in each of the two half years to the 30th June 1946, in excess of 80% of the weight sold in the corresponding period of last year.
3 Jul 1945 Iddison, Tom
Staff Ministry of Health agrees to try and get release from the forces of Mr T H Iddison of Hartley, the district sanitary inspector.
3 Jul 1945 Council Housing: Hodsoll Street
Housing at Hodsoll Street "A communication has been received from the Ministry of Health, stating that subject to the approval of house plans by the Senior Regional Officer, and to the council being satisfied that the site will be in such a state that building can officially begin by the time the contract is let, authorisation is given to invite tenders for the erection of 10 houses in Hodsoll Street, Ash. The Architect and Housing Superintendent has submitted a draft house plan to the Senior Regional Officer of the Ministry of Health and on receipt of approval to, or suggestions on the plan, a draft layout will be submitted to the Committee for consideration. It is probable that the layout will only provide for 8 houses on the site already in the possession of the council at Hodsoll Street." Council agree to use Direct Labour rather than go out to tender.
3 Jul 1945 Church Road, Hartley: Stocks Farm
Church Road, Pond "Mr Gladdish, Church Road, Hartley, has given permission to connect a small surface water pond (that frequently is a nuisance from overflowing) to a well on his property. (He lived at Stocks Farm) However council reject idea because of risk of contaminating water supplies.
3 Jul 1945 Bignell, C S (Councillor for Hartley
Captain C S Bignell (of Hartley) "The Chairman referred to the honour conferred on Captain C S Bignell by HM the king, by the award of the MBE and desired to offer his congratulations and those of the council, upon the award made in recognition of his very able, willing and conscientious service in the Civil Defence Organisation of the district, and, having regard to the praise which has been bestowed by the authorities on the efficient working of the Civil Defence Organisation, it showed that there had been fine leadership."
3 Jul 1945 Civil Defence Disbanding
Civil Defence "The Chairman stated that the organisation of the council's Civil Defence Services terminated on Sunday, the 1st instant, when all whole time personnel, with a few exceptions, ceased to be so employed. He felt the council had every right to be proud of the way in which the Civil Defence Services had functioned throughout the war, and that the thanks of the council were due to theperonnel for the loyalty and readiness with which they had carried out their duties. He made particular refrence to the services of Captain C S Bignell; of Mr F Sutch, the deputy sub-controller; Mr H C Radley, the Air Raid Precautions officer; and to his predecessors in that office; and to Mr A W Towe, who had been the Chief Warden and Fire Guard Officer and, although acting in a voluntary capacity, had put in an immense amount of time in carrying out the functions of the offices; to the Head Wardens, and to the head of the Casualty and other services."
3 Jul 1945 Planning: Prevention of Development at Hartley etc
Proposal to buy land at Hartley etc to control development "The Clerk reported that as instructed at the last meeting of the council, he had communicated with the local members of parliament and the North Kent Joint Town Planning Committee upon the council's desire to acquire the land at Fawkham, Hartley and Longfield, and had that morning received from Sir Waldron Smithers and Mrs J L Adamson copies of a letter they had received from the Minister of Town and Country Planning, which was to the effect that while the desire of the council to acquire the land was appreciated, the Minister felt that the Town and Country Planning Act 1944, gave planning authorities adequate powers to control the development of the land, and he was therefore unable to accede to the purchase of the land by the council."
31 Jul 1945 Building Inspections
Building Inspector reports that excavation of foundations of bungalow in Gorsewood Road for H C Turner [Acorns, Gorsewood Road] is now OK (Planning ref 3391). Building line OK for bungalow at Gorsewood Road for R Ives (Planning ref 3340) [The Ivys, Gorsewood Road].
31 Jul 1945 Council Housing: Hodsoll Street
Hodsoll Street. Council have completed plans for narrow fronted houses (estimated cost £913 each). The clerk was instructed to buy additional land there to enable 10 to be built.
31 Jul 1945 Council Housing: Points System
Council Housing: Points scheme Council adopt the proposal of the clerk that they should adopt a points system used by other councils when allocating council housing, in view of the very large number of applications they are receiving. The following points scheme was agreed:
(1) Present Accommodation - Good 0, Poor 2, Very Poor 4, None 6.
(2) Degree of overcrowding, persons per room - One 0, Two 2, Three 4, Four 6
(3) Employed - In district 3, Outside district 1, Outside but formerly in 2
(4) Length of application - per year with satisfactory references 1 (max 6)
(5) Service in forces or service disablement - per year 1
(6) Whether husband or wife resident in district before 1939 - each 5 years 1 (max 6)
(7) Persons living in houses subject to demoltion/closing order or evicted from farm cottages - 1
(8) Homeless by enemy action - 1 year 1, each subsequent year ½.
One extra member of staff taken on to run the scheme.
4 Sep 1945 Council Housing: Hodsoll Street
Housing at Hodsoll Street" A letter from the Ministry of Health was read, stating that the proposal to proceed with the erection of 10 houses.. by direct labour at a cost of £9,386 8s 4d was approved, and asking to be furnished with certain further information. It was also reported that there had been certain difficulties in connection with the acquisition of the additional land, due to the inability of the District Valuer and the owner's agents being able to agree on the price to be paid. The clerk reported that he had been in touch with the owners themselves, and, as a result he thought the price would now be mutually agreed.
4 Sep 1945 Water Supply
A letter from the Mid Kent Water Company was read, dated the 27th ultimo, stating that the company would be prepared to provide and lay a 3 inch main at their own expenses if the council accepted responsibility for the payment of the water rates and would guarantee that the company will receive in water rates the sum of £10 per annum on the lines of the usual agreement. They also stated that the council would not doubt ask the National Fire Service if they desired a hydrant to be installed on the main. It was resolved that the council give a guarantee that the company would receive in water rates the sum of £10 per annum, and that the National Fire Service be asked whether they desired a hydrant."
2 Oct 1945 War Damage
War Damage The following seriously damaged properties have had repairs completed in the last month: Sylva, Ash Road, Hartley (builder A Longhurst), Clevis and Dunbar, Main Road, New Barn (G Russell & Son)
2 Oct 1945 Council Housing: Hodsoll Street
Housing at Hodsoll Street "Your committee have been notified by the District Valuer that the purchase price to be paid for the area of land having approximately 1.016 acres, required for an additional housing site at Hodsoll Street, Ash, has been agreed at £75, Surveyor's fees and solicitor's costs on usual scale to be paid by the council in addition."
2 Oct 1945 Public Health Act Works
Housing Repairs to Suncroft, Peterkin and Woodside bungalows at Abbots Wood, Ash, completed under the Housing Act 1936. Roof repaired to abate damp walls at 1-3 The Drive, Longfield under Public Health Act 1936. Also The Orchard, Hoselands Hill, Hartley fumigated for fleas.
2 Oct 1945 Food Poisoning: Longfield
Food poisoning "Food poisoning occurred at Longfield, two families were affected. The suspected food was traced and samples submitted to the county laboratory."
2 Oct 1945 Slaughterman Licence: Gough of St Teresa, Gorsewood Road
Slaughterman licence Renewed for William Frederick Gough of St Teresa, Gorsewood Road, Hartley.
2 Oct 1945 Salvage: Stats
Salvage Following amounts collected in July and August: Clean Paper (18.44 tons), black scrap (1.25 tons), ferrous scrap (12.61 tons), metal (0.16 tons), rags (1.52 tons), sacking (0.3 tons), carpet (0.03 tons), bones (0.36 tons), ashes for brickmaking (34.5 tons), kitchen waste (109.25 tons).
2 Oct 1945 Telephone Wires: Ridley
Telephones "Your committee have received applications from the Post Office.. for consent to the erection of (a) 2 telegraph posts to carry wires in New Street, Ridley, and removal of telegraphic post carrying wires from outside Orchard Cottage to south side of New Street, and (b) 3 telegraphic posts to carry wires in New Street, Ridley. They have consented to the erection of the telegraph posts subject to them being placed in positions approved by the council's surveyor."
6 Nov 1945 Meopham New Town
Proposed satellite town at Meopham, Greater London Plan "The Council will have noticed references in the press to a proposal of a housing association to carry out a survey with a view to the erection of houses and other buildings to form a satellite town at Meopham mentioned in the Greater London Plan. Your committee have been in communication with the Ministry of Town and Country Planning, who stated that the housing association referred to in a recent announcement in the press is not sponsored by the ministry and has no connection with it. The Ministry state that in collaboration with other government departments they are at present considering the plan's proposals as a whole, including, of course, the proposal to establish a new town at Meopham, but than no decision had yet been reached, and full opportunity will be given to the local planning authorities to express their views, and that in this connection, the Minister of Town and Country Planning has already asked the North Kent Joint Planning Committee to collect and coordinate the views of their constituent authorities on the plan. The Rev Stanley Morgan reported upon the reasons of the formation of the housing association formed to erect houses at Meopham, and stated that the London County Council were interested in the scheme, but no steps could be taken until the proposals had the approval of the Ministry of Town and Country Planning and the London County Council, although he was of the opinion that housing associations, whose objects were to provide houses for occupation at as low a rental as possible and whose powers were limited by statute should be encouraged by local authorities."
4 Dec 1945 Building Inspections
Housing Following damp proof course works in building works have been inspected and approved: Church Road, bungalow (planning ref 3556), bungalows at Gorsewood Road (ref 3391 and 3340). Excavation for foundations of dwelling house at Essex Road, Longfield now OK (ref 3531).
4 Dec 1945 Public Health Act Works
Chief Sanitary Inspector Preliminary notice served to owner of Old Parsonage, Church Road, Hartley. New dustbin supplied to 2 Mabel Cottages, Longfield. Cesspool done and cover renewed at Forge Cottage, Ash.
4 Dec 1945 Milk Testing
Agriculture Samples of milk tested and satisfactory at Speedgate Farm, Fawkham, and North Ash Farm, Ash.
4 Dec 1945 Typhus Quarrantine
Health Seven people have returned to district from typhus area. They are under observation by the health inspectors.
4 Dec 1945 Hartley Bottom Road: overhanging hedges
Hartley Bottom Road "Owing to accidents on this road the traffic department of the Kent Constabulary request that on 5 bends in the road hedges should be removed and trees felled. Lopping notices for overhanging hedges had been served on the respective tenants before the police inspection. The requisite lopping has now been carried out and the trees removed with the owners' permission. The Kent War Agricultural Committee are responsible for two of the hedge boundaries considered as dangerous corners. They have agreed to cutting further back on the Ridley corner. At the Haven Road junction a major road ahead sign is recommended as a cottage built up to the road boundaries obstructs the corner. The police record 20 accidents during the last 10 years. Local reports reduce the number to 6. Two of those are attributed to the hump back railway bridge at the siding. The road has as restricted traffic sign at the B260 junction. Fencing will be required if the hedges are grubbed as the land is used for grazing. The estimated costs of the suggested hedge grubbing and fencing is £200. The approval of land owners and KWA Committee would be necessary."
4 Dec 1945 Longfield Station: Services
Longfield Station "Your committee have received a suggestion that representation should be made to the Southern Railway to ask that the 6.18 pm train from Victoria to Chatham should stop at Fawkham Station as a number of persons who normally alight at Fawkham desired to use such train. Your committee are making representation to the Southern Railway accordingly."
1 Jan 1946 Building Inspections
Housing Building inspector reports lean to greenhouse at Haley Shaw, Church Road, Hartley (Planning ref 3599) has been completed satisfactorily. Also satisfactory are drains at a bungalow at Hodsoll Street (ref 1291), drains at a bungalow at Church Road, Hartley (ref 3556) and wall plates in external walls for dwelling house at Essex Road, Longfield.
1 Jan 1946 Salvage: Stats
Salvage December collection were figures: Clean paper (10.7 tons), bones (0.22 tons), bottles & jars (15 tons), miscellaneous metal (1.75 tons), ashes (17.5 tons) and kitchen waste (65.74 tons).
1 Jan 1946 Council Housing: Hodsoll Street
Hodsoll Street Housing Architect and Housing Superintendent reports "Work on the 10 permanent houses has been commenced but progress is bound to be slow until more labour is forthcoming. Every effort is made to obtain the labour. As this site is an isolated position it will facilitate the conduct of the work if the telephone could be laid on temporarily and I shall be glad to have your consent to this." Council authorised the phone.
1 Jan 1946 War Damage
It was reported that the number of building workmen at present engaged by the council was 42, of which 10 were bricklayers, carpenters, plasterers and plumbers concerned with the construction of houses, the remaining staff being painters and labourers. Before the war the number of men employed on building construction by the council was approximately 150. There were at present in addition, 140 men employed by private firms engaged on the repair of war damage in the council's district.
1 Jan 1946 Mortgage Loans
Housing loan Mr J R Webster has paid off loan on property in Church Road, Hartley.
[Burwell, Church Road, Hartley]
1 Jan 1946 Elections: Polling Stations
County Council elections Kent County Council propose that polling stations should be open 8am to 8pm in areas with a population over 3,000 but only 12 - 8 in smaller areas. DRDC wrote to say all areas should be treated equally.
5 Feb 1946 Building Inspections
Housing Building inspector has inspected and approved the following works: Application No. 3615 (Addition to house, Johns, Church Road, Hartley) - foundations; 3564 (Garage, Merricks, Gorse Way, Hartley) - damp proof course
5 Feb 1946 Planning: Post War
Greater London Plan "Your committee have been invited to submit to the Advisory Committee on Greater London Planning, through the North Kent Joint Planning Committee, their observations on the Greater London Plan. The Council will remember that they accepted a recommendation of the Town Planning Committee that in connection with the Greater London Plan every effort should be made to retain the Darent Valley in its existing form and keep it as free as possible from buildings. Your committee have given further consideration to the plan and recommend that the North kent Joint Planning Committee be informed that the council:
(1) Recommend that communicaties should be formed round villages, and that ribbon development between villages, which might result if Professor Abercrombie's report is adopted, should not be allowed.
(2) Are not in favour of the suggested satellite town at or near Meopham, but suggest that the Hartley-Longfield area and Kingsdown be developed as larger villages.
(3) Feel that the local green belt round Dartford as suggested by Professor Abercrombie is perhaps too near the present closely built up area of the town, and suggest a reasonable area of land be provided for residential development within the local green belt, but not exceeding the area shown on the Thameside Area Plan prepared by the NW Kent Joint Planning Committee and produced to the Town Planning Committee."
5 Feb 1946 Meopham New Town
(1) Recommend that communicaties should be formed round villages, and that ribbon development between villages, which might result if Professor Abercrombie's report is adopted, should not be allowed.
5 Feb 1946 Gorsewood Road, Hartley: Development Plan
Gorsewood Road, Hartley "Your committee have considered the proposed layout for the Gorsewood Estate prepared by the planning officer of the North Kent Planning Committee. They recommend that such layout be adopted but that no development be allowed at present beyond a datum line as set out on such layout plan and as agreed by your committee."
5 Feb 1946 Council Housing: 1947-1949 plans
Housing "Having regard to the fact that the council have already agreed with the Ministry of Health to erect, if possible 200 house in each of the first 2 post war years, and that approximately 1,000 applications have been received for houses, it is obvious to your subcommittee that it will be necessary for some years to endeavour to continue to erect houses at the same rate as is proposed during the first 2 post war years. They therefore recommend that for the purpose of the return 600 houses be included at an estimated inclusive cost of £1,000 each, making an average capital expenditure for each of the three years of £200,000 or £600,000 in all."
5 Feb 1946 Sewer Extensions
Sewerage scheme "Your subcommittee have also given further consideration to the scheme for the construction of sewers, which was agreed in principle by the council on the 4th December 1944, when the following tentative proposals for the construction of sewers was agreed viz:
(i) Kingsdown to Farningham: Main sewer £14,000; Branch Sewer £1,000
(ii) Hartley, Longfield and Darenth: Main sewer £46,000; Branch Sewer £1,000
(iii) Ash and Fawkham to link up with (ii) at Longfield: Main sewer £33,000; Branch Sewer £1,000
(iv) Bean to link up with Stone outfall works: Main sewer £15,500
(v) Southfleet to link up with Stone outfall works: Would have to be separate sewerage scheme
(vi) Birchwood Road, Wilmington: Main sewer £8,000"
For terms of financial planning the sub-committee recommend doing scheme (vi) in year one and (i) to (iii) in the two subsequent years. (iv) and (v) were shelved for the time being.
5 Feb 1946 Sunday Cinema
Sunday Entertainments Act 1932 the Corona Cinema Swanley has paid £156 10s 8d under this act which the council distributed for charitable objects including £10 each to Ash and District Nursing Association and Longfield and District Nursing Association.
5 Feb 1946 Infectious Diseases
Health 1 case of Scarlet fever each at Longfield and Hartley. 1 case of whooping cough at Longfield
5 Feb 1946 Public Health Act Works
Housing: Public Health Sanitary Inspector reports work is in hand to provide a new cesspool at Idleigh Court, Ash. He has served intimation notices to owners of Railway Tavern, Longfield (Dirty urinal) and 1-10 St George's Cottages, Whitehill, Longfield (defective drainage). He has also treated 2 Ivy Cottages and 4 Elm Terrace Longfield, for bugs. Hartley Bottom Farm and Red Cow Farm have been told to cleanse their cowsheds. And rat poison has been laid at Longfield School and the Royal Oak, West Yoke, Ash.
5 Feb 1946
Petroleum Licences The following local licences were granted: F A Howe, Main Road, Longfield for garage at Main Road (2,000 gallons); Hartley Agricultural Cooperative Society, Ash Road, Hartley (400 galls); CM Ellerby, Fairby Hill Hartley, for Contractors Yard at Fairby Hill, Hartley (250 galls); W Leeves, Station Road, Longfield for Essex Road, Longfield (500 galls); Borough of Southwark for Longfield Refuse Depot (300 galls)
5 Mar 1946 Lullingstone Airport
Suggested airport at Lullingstone "....Your committee recommend that the Ministry of Town and Country Planning be informed that the council are in favour of the use of land at Lullingstone as an airport."
5 Mar 1946 German Prisoners of War
German Prisoners of War Council has no comment to make to the Ministry of Works, about proposal to use hutted camp at Sutton at Hone for German POWs.
5 Mar 1946 Finance: Precept 1946
Annual rate The district rate for 1946/7 will rise from 13s 7d in the pound to 14 shillings. Kent County Council rate will be 11s 4d in the pound. Parish rates are: Hartley - 1d in the pound; Longfield - 4d in the pound plus 3d in the pound for streetlighting, Ash, Fawkham, Ridley - nil. The lighting costs were said to have increased because of the reintroduction of street lighting.
5 Mar 1946 Public Health Act Works
Public Health Johnson's Farm, Ash and Heathfield (Hothfield?) Dairies told to cleanse walls and ceiling. Rat poison laid by inspector at Longfield School and Ridley Church. 2 Ivy Cottages, Longfield has complied with notice to eradicate bed bugs. Notice served on tenant of 4 Elm Cottages, Longfield, work is in hand.
5 Mar 1946 Hodsoll Street: Council Housing
Housing - Hodsoll Street "The Architect reported that he was unable to obtain an adequate supply of bricks, particularly Fletton facing bricks, and if necessary he might have to amend the construction by external cement rendering. The clerk reported that he had communicated with the principal housing officer asking if he could expedite the delivery of the bricks. It was resolved that the Architect be authorised to amend the construction having regard to the delay in the delivery of materials."
5 Mar 1946 Ash Road, Hartley: Widening at Woodlands
Ash Road, Hartley "Mr Hemesley, the owner of ?Woodlands' at Hartley, in setting up a new boundary fence on his frontage, has agreed to a slight widening of the carriageway with concrete kerbing, providing drop kerbs are placed where requested for entrance to his property."
5 Mar 1946 Hoselands Hill, Hartley: Cats Eyes
Hoselands Hill, Hartley "The Kent County Council have agreed to supply cats eye studs for Hoselands Hill traffic guide line. The County Police Inspector has inspected and approved the insertion for this dangerous hill."
5 Mar 1946 Station Road, Longfield: Junction with Hartley Road
Station Road, Longfield "A plan for the improvement of the horse-shoe bend at the junction with Hoselands Hill has been submitted to the county surveyor for approval."
2 Apr 1946 Green Way, Hartley
Land on south side of Hartley Green School "A large quantity of second hand timber and other materials has been deposited on the above land and Mr A Goldsmith of Fairway, Gravesend Road, Ash, has been apparently engaged on the repair and erection of sectional wooden buildings. Informal notice has been served on Mr Goldsmith, requiring removal of the sheds and accumulation of second hand materials. Council agreed to serve Public Health Act notice on Mr Goldsmith and Mr A S Varnham of Greenlands, Brands Hatch Road, Fawkham.
[This is where Green Way is today, this might be related to the Greyhound training track that was built there about this time]
2 Apr 1946 Housing Completions
Housing Building inspector reports approval of the following work stages: Addition to Parsonage Orchard, Church Road (ref 3569) - completed; Bungalow, Gorse Way, Hartley (ref 3609) - foundations; Bungalow, Gorse Way (ref 3637) - building line; Bungalow, Church Road, Hartley (ref 3630) - foundations; Garage, Merricks, Gorse Way (ref 3560) - completion; Additions to Johns, Church Road, Hartley (ref 3615) - drainage.
2 Apr 1946 Buses: Dartford to Meopham
Dartford - Meopham bus service "Your committee report that consequent upon respresentations made by them to the London Passenger Transport Board that the 5.51 pm bus from Dartford High Street to Hillhouse Road, Stone, should continue to Darenth, thereby leaving more room on the 5.56 pm bus for long distance passengers wishing to go to Longfield and Hook Green, the Board have stated it is hoped it will be possible to make alterations to the timetable of the service to ease the position to which attention has been called."
7 Jun 1949 Infectious Diseases
Health Cases of measles at Hartley (2), Fawkham (2), Ash (1). 1 case of scabies at Longfield.
7 Jun 1949 Royal Oak, Ash
Ice Cream permission given to W C Dunkley of the Royal Oak, Ash to sell ice cream.
7 Jun 1949 Council Housing: Hartley
Housing, Ash Road, Hartley Ministry of Health approves tender of Gravesend Federation of Building Trade Employees tender of £29,312 11s 2d to build 26 houses at Ash road. Council to apply for permission to borrow the money to be repaid over 60 years.
7 Jun 1949 Housing Completions
Housing Completions the following works have been completed in the last month: Ravenna [now The Poplars], Church Road (Ref 4083) - War Damage Rebuild; Bungalow, Ash Road (Ref 4101); Bungalow Church Road (Ref 4249); Garage, Church Road (Ref 48/126); Addition to bungalow, Church Road, Hartley (Ref 49/64)
7 Jun 1949 Cadet Hut: Longfield
Site for cadet hut, Longfield council agree to rent 100 foot square site on their land until 31.12.1952, at a rent of £1.
7 Jun 1949 Road Accident Statistics
Road safety 9 accidents (including 2 at Ash) occurred in district in April with 11 injuries.
5 Jul 1949 Gorsewood Road, Hartley: Red Acre
Gorsewood Road "Plan No 4299. Action on a notice served on Mr A Boyd, 4 Albion Road, Bexleyheath to remove a shed at Gorsewood Road, Hartley, the subject of a temporary notice, has been deferred in view of the Minister of Town and Country Planning allowing the appeal of the owner to develop the site in question for residential purposes. As Mr Boyd has intimated that he intends to submit detailed plans for a residence in the near future, I recommend the temporary licence be renewed to expire on 31st December 1950."
[Red Acre, Gorsewood Road. Alexander Boyd 1884-1968]
5 Jul 1949 Gorsewood Road, Hartley: Widening
Chief Planning Officer calls for widening of Gorsewood Road. "Now that the Ministry of Town and Country Planning have agreed that development shall take place along all the frontage of Gorsewood Road, I am off the opinion that steps should now be taken to ensure adequate access to all the properties along the road. This matter should be discussed with the Engineer and Surveyor to the Dartford RDC. County Surveyor may have some observations on the question of road width which should be maintained."
5 Jul 1949 Housing Completions
Housing completions House, Ash Road, Hartley (Planning Ref: 4175); Garage, Haverstock Drive, Hartley (ref 4173). Village Hall, Longfield Hill has also been completed but drainage is not yet satisfactory.
5 Jul 1949 Council Housing at Hartley
Housing at Ash Road, Hartley error in original tender spotted, the value of the contract should be £29,676 3s 8d, repayable on an annuity basis over 60 years at 3%.
5 Jul 1949 Council Housing: Plans
Housing council plans to build 160 houses in 1950 including 12 at Longfield and 8 at Ash on sites to be acquired.
5 Jul 1949 Telephone Boxes
Telephone Boxes DRDC to get 4 extra for the district to be at Crockenhill, Southfleet, Hawley and by Longfield Schools.
26 Jul 1949 Tree Preservation Orders
Tree Preservation "The following list of trees and woodlands is presented to the committee for consideration and it is suggested that they be submitted to the Kent County Council for their consideration:"
Hartley: Foxbrough Wood, Goldsmith's Shaw, Hartley Wood
Ash: Long Bottom Shaw, Hatch Wood, The Roughits, Haven Wood, Jub's Hill Wood, Pettings Wood, Redhill Wood, Springcroft wood, White Ash Wood, Dunmerry Grove, Nine Horse Wood, Redsteadle Wood, Dell Wood, Redlibbets Wood, Turner's Oak Shaw, Old Chapel Wood, Shaws and trees from The Haven via Horn's Lodge to Pettins Cottage, Mace Wood, Peckham Wood
Ridley: Middle Wood, Viney Wood, Ridley Wood
Fawkham: Parkfield Wood, Pennis Wood
26 Jul 1949 Salvage Stats
Salvage Last month collection was: Clean Paper (8.53 tons), Rags (2.27 tons), Bones (0.15 tons), Black Scrap (1.5 tons), Sacking (0.38 tons), Misc Metal (0.15 tons), Kitchen Waste (24.45 tons), Ashes for brickmaking (23 tons)
26 Jul 1949 Oak Farm Estate, Ash
Oak Farm Estate, Ash Council refuse application from Mr Ernest Walker of 88 Addis Road, Peckham for licence to live in a double decker bus there, but say if he can show he has a fresh water supply, then they may reconsider.
26 Jul 1949 Ash Street, Ash: butchers
Agriculture Renewal of slaughterman's licence for John Rogers of Ash Street, Ash.
26 Jul 1949 Gorsewood Road, Hartley: Byways
Gorsewood Road "An application by Mr Frederick Brook, Byways, Gorsewood Road, Hartley, for a licence to station a caravan and kitchen then there was submitted. It was reported that that site had been inspected and found in a clean condition; that main water was available, and that the sanitary arrangements were satisfactory. The application was approved by the Sanitary Inspector and the Medical Officer of Health." Licence until 31.12.1949 approved.
26 Jul 1949 Sunday Cinema
Sunday Entertainment £5 from Corona Cinema, Swanley's payment to go to Longfield Darby and Joan Club.
26 Jul 1949 Fawkham Road, Longfield: Wright Villas
Housing, Longfield council agree to name houses in Fawkham Road "Wright Villas" and houses in Kent Road "Walter Villas" after Walter Wright, Longfield councillor for 27 years. Clerk pointed out there were already Walter Cottages in Kent Road and suggested they came up with another name, which they agreed to.
6 Sep 1949 Building Licences
Licence to build 13 licences to build granted, including B Alexander (ref 49/140 bungalow, Church Road, Hartley), Mrs N M Hitchcock (ref 49/141 house at Manor Drive, Hartley), C Warwick (ref 49/157 Grosvenor Road (sic), Hartley), R Hoare (ref 49/162 bungalow, Wellfield, Hartley) (the refs are the building licence refs, not the planning application number).
6 Sep 1949 Ash Road, Hartley: Glebe Cottage
Hartley Old Rectory Council agree to support Mr Hallewell's desire to build another house or bungalow on the land.
6 Sep 1949 Housing Completions
Housing completions at Hartley Bungalow, Gorse Way (Ref 4155), Bungalow Stack Road (Ref 4435); Bungalow, Church Road (Ref 49/107), Pigsties, Church Road (Ref 49/167)
6 Sep 1949 Kent Road, Longfield: Airey Houses
Housing: Longfield Parish council suggest new Airey houses in Kent Road be called Marie Villas. Approved by council.
6 Sep 1949 Council Housing at Hartley
Housing at Ash Road, Hartley Council sign contract with Mr L Redwood, Mr PC Tarrant, Messrs Magner & MacDonald.
4 Oct 1949 Building Licences
Civil Building Licences 16 licences granted including to R Hoare (licence 49/99 Haverstock Drive, Hartley [Probably Perran, Wellfield]), C Warwick (49/114 Gorsewood Road, Hartley [Barn End, Gorsewood Road]), P H Edwards (49/126 Ash Road, Hartley)
4 Oct 1949 Salvage Stats
Salvage The following was collected in July and August: Clean paper (33.13 tons), Bottles & Jars (0.4 tons), Black Scrap (1.15 tons), Bones (0.61 tons), Rags (1.56 tons), Kitchen waste (57.2 tons), ashes for brickmaking (43 tons). Total value £178 10s 8d.
4 Oct 1949 Salvage Policy
A communication has been received from the Board of Trade, stating that subsisting directions and instructions to the council relating to the collection or preservation or disposal of paper (including cardboard and articles made therefrom) or rags (including sacks and carpets), or household bones has been revoked. A letter has also been received from the Southern Paper Stock Co Ltd, to whom all waste paper collected by the council has been sold in the past, stating that the company have been reluctantly compelled to reduce the purchase of waste paper as from the 10th September 1949, to 2 tons of mixed papers per week. Your committee recommend that the council continue to collect waste paper for the time being, notwithstanding that fact that such collections cannot be disposed of to the Paper Mills, the matter to be considered again in 3 months time.
4 Oct 1949 Mabel Cottages, Longfield
Mabel Cottages, Longfield Cost of converting 1-6 Mabel Cottages from Pail to water closet will be £293 14s 5d. Council will pay half, the owner the other.
4 Oct 1949 Street Renaming: Hartley
Street names ".....The Hartley Parish Council, who were invited to submit suggestions for the naming of roads on the new housing estate in that parish, have recommended the following names: Wellfield to replace Haverstock Drive, Larksfield to replace Silverdale, the connecting road which runs parallel to Hoselands Hill to be named Hoselands View. Your committee are in agreement with the suggestions made by the two parish councils and recommend accordingly."
4 Oct 1949 Council Bulletin: Sales Figures
Council bulletin The first 4 editions have sold 453, 552, 498 and 279 copies respectively. Unsold copies given to schools, youth clubs, doctors' and dentist surgeries.
4 Oct 1949 Road Accident Statistics
Road Safety Road safety organiser gave report of increase in accidents (1948 equivalent month in brackets):
January 19 (26), fatalities 1 (0)
February 21 (17), fatalities 1 (0)
March 20 (23), fatalities 0 (1)
April 21 (9), fatalities 1 (0)
May 33 (17), fatalities 1 (0)
June 31 (26), fatalities 1 (1)
July 36 (26)
Total injuries in June/July were 42. Causes of accidents included defective tyres/wheels (27), fatigued pedal cyclists (13), improperly overtaking (8), cyclists holding onto vehicle (4), pedestrians heedless of traffic (4).
4 Oct 1949 Council Housing at Hartley
Housing: Ash Road, Hartley Ministry of Health give permission for council to go ahead. Council sign contract with Mr E A Owens to build 8 houses at Hartley.
1 Nov 1949 Salvage Stats
Salvage The following was collected in September: Clean Paper (7.95 tons), bones (0.11 tons), Kitchen waste (29.94 tons), Ashes for brickmaking (19 tons). Total value £42 7s 9d.
1 Nov 1949 Air Raid Shelters
Tenders for dismantling, collection and removal of Anderson and Morrison Shelters "Your committee have received 10 tenders for the dismantling, collection and removal of Anderson and Morrison shelters, the lowest being from Mr Austin Gibbons of 76 Warwick Avenue, Edgware, Middx, in the sum of £500 1s 6d. Your committee recommend that this tender be accepted, subject to examination by the Engineer and Surveyor and to the approval of the Home Office." (approved by full council)
1 Nov 1949 Civil Defence Act 1948
Civil Defence Under the Civil Defence Act 1948 this is a county function, but KCC have delegated recruitment and training to district councils. Clerk of DRDC to be responsible for civil defence matters.
1 Nov 1949 Housing Completions
Housing at Hartley since last report inspector notes following completions. Additions to bungalow, Phoenix [now Stocks Mead], Church road (Planning ref 48/102), Additions to Bungalow, Manor Drive (Ref 49/148), Additions to Bungalow, Ash Road (48/176).
1 Nov 1949 Planning Enforcement
Planning breach at Highfields, Ash Road. Unauthorised use of garage and extension without consent (S F Willmott)
[Highlands, Ash Road; probably Cyril Frederick Willmot 1902-1974]
1 Nov 1949 Building Licences
Building licences granted to W Nixon to rebuild war damaged bungalow at Gorsewood Road ([Briar Cottage, Gorsewood Road] Licence 49/167) and to Miss M Waters to build house at Gorsewood Road ([Kchana, Gorsewood Road] Licence 49/191)
1 Nov 1949 Council Housing: Electricity
Electricity for council houses Council agree to seek tenders to install electricity in all pre-1939 council houses that do not have it.
1 Nov 1949 Council Housing at Longfield
Housing at Longfield Council have approved land on a site south of the railway and east of Hartley Road for new council houses for Longfield.
1 Nov 1949 Public Works Loans Board
Highways council have agreed for a loan of £1,247 payable over 20 years with the Public Works Loans Board for roads in Hartley and a mortgage of £29,976 with the Public Works Loan Board to build 26 houses in Hartley.
6 Dec 1949 Planning: expansion of Hartley and Longfield
District Plan Council "do not approve the observations and recommendation of the Hartley Parish Council that the parishes of Hartley and Longfield, with the New Barn area, should not be created a major centre with a population of 5,000 for which the development plan could be adapted to provide." Hartley member A E Edward tried to overturn this proposal but withdrew it when told only "normal development" would be allowed there. Plan also names Crockenhill, Eynsford and Horton Kirby as minor centres. Council calls for 7,500 population of Swanley Junction, not 5,000 as in the draft. They also do not like proposal to prevent development in Dartford to force development into the Dartford Rural area.
6 Dec 1949 Mobile Homes
Caravan licences Council approve the following until 31.12.1950 (1) A Hitchcock of Highfield Caravan (Johns), Gorsewood Road, Hartley - trailer caravan and small hut at Gorsewood Road; (2) F Barker of Byways, Gorsewood Road, Hartley - motor caravan and kitchen tent at Gorsewood Road; (3) W R Moseley of Churchdown Farm, Longfield - trailer Caravan at Churchdown Road; (4) A Hitchcock of Highfield Caravan (Johns) - moveable dwelling at Highfield, Gorsewood Road, Hartley.
6 Dec 1949 Whitehill Road, Longfield: Tip
Whitehill Tip, Longfield "A letter has been received from the Ministry of Health, stating that complaints had been received by the Minister from Longfield Parish Council, concerning stench and nuisance from flies alleged to arise from the council's refuse tip at Whitehill Cross Road, Longfield. Mention has also been made of the fact that the refuse tip caught fire during the summer and is still burning. Your committee as a matter of urgency, have authorised the Chief Sanitary Inspector to hire a mechanical excavator to dig out refuse at present on fire and to dig channels to prevent the fire spreading. Ratification of this action is called for. Your committee also recommend that a mechanical excavator be hired to dig out earth at the disused quarry for spreading over the layers of refuse as it is deposited on the tip from the council's refuse wagons. Your committee also recommend that, if necessary, mechanical dumpers and lorries be hired in connection with the digging and transport of the earth to be deposited over the layers of refuse." Approved by council.
6 Dec 1949 Housing Completions
Garage at Stack lane ([Berne, Stack Lane] Planning Ref 49/275) has been completed since Surveyor's last report. Licence to build detached house at Ash Road granted to P H Edwards (Ref 49/210)
6 Dec 1949 Council Housing: Playing Fields
Playing fields council agreed to try and include playing fields in future council house building.