Embedded Files
6 Jan 1873
Meeting. Chairman: Mr Law. Others: Messrs. Anderton, Blackburn, Gibson, Roberts, Stead, Sykes & Wadsworth.
A lengthy report of the Small pox Committee was presented. Mr D. Bottomley had been appointed small pox inspector on 14 Aug last. There had been 109 cases with 6 deaths; 48 houses, of which 39 were disinfected. Patients who were removed to the hospital at Bradford showed that 93 of them were vaccinated. The six who died were all unvaccinated. The Inspector has now been dismissed, the disease having been stamped out.
The Chairman stated that as a result of the Board request for collections towards the Bradford Fever Hospital, a sum of almost £50 had been realised.
The Board discussed the proposal to unite with Heckmondwike and Liversedge in the carrying out of a scheme of drainage and ultimately passed a resolution declining to join therein.
15 Jan 1873
Meeting held at the Board room, Green Side. Chairman: Mr Law. Others: Messrs. Anderton, Atkinson, Blackburn, Gibson, Roberts, Stead & Wadsworth.
Various accounts were ordered to be paid.
The Clerk was instructed to invite tenders for the laying of a causeway at Moor Side.
Plans for the erection of 7 dwelling houses in Mount Street were passed.
A discussion took place on the as to the propriety of paving some parts of the district with wood. The general feeling was decidedly favourable but Mr Roberts suggested that no steps should be taken until it had been tried in other towns. No action was taken.
The nuisance inspector reported having abated over 40 nuisances since his last report and called attention to many others.
29 Jan 1873
Meeting. Chairman: Mr Law.
A petition was presented, signed by by ratepayers representing 3/4 of the rateable value of the portion of Liversedge sought to be annexed to Cleckheaton (parts of Moor Bottom). Five members signed the petition and the seal was attached preparatory to it being forwarded to the Local Government Office in London.
The tender of Messrs Culpan, manufacturing chemists, White Lee, was accepted for the supply of tar and ammoniacal liquor to the gas works.
4 Mar 1873
Special meeting. No details of those present.
An application was read from the stokers at the gasworks for an advance in wages. The Board refused to entertain the question.
The bad sanitary condition of Cleckheaton having been reported to the Local Government Board, London, the medical department sent for certain information. The Clerk was ordered to supply the full details.
12 Mar 1873
Meeting. Chairman: Mr Law. Others: Messrs. Roberts, Sykes, Atkinson, Anderton, Stead, Wadsworth, Gibson and Blackburn.
On a suggestion made by Mr Sykes several weeks ago, Messrs Law and Wadsworth recommended that a person should be engaged at the gasworks to weigh coals received and coke sold out. The matter was deferred.
Messrs Law and Atkinson were appointed to meet Mr Fleming with respect to the appointment of medical officers of health for the North Bierley Union and now gave its report. Mr Fleming recommended the appointment of a medical officer for the whole union and that a rate of one halfpenny in the pound would raise £600, and with a grant of a similar sum from government, a medical officer and four assistants might be engaged. A resolution was passed by a small majority at the Bradford meeting in favour. Mr Sykes gave notice of a motion on the subject of the appointment of a medical officer to be introduced on the 21st inst.
Several members complained of the bad state of the roads, especially those in the district of the Granby Hotel. It was decided that the surveyor should be informed.
Plans for eight cottages in Westgate by Mr John Thornton were passed.
Plans for a chimney at brickworks by Messrs Naylor Bros, were approved.
Plans for a cart shed by Mr L M Tetlow were passed.
Plans for 2 houses at Moorend by Mr J Blackburn were approved.
Plans for four dwelling houses in Prospect Fields, Tofts by Messrs. Hepworth & Ellis were not passed due to the drainage not being satisfactory.
Plans for the erection of a willey room at the bottom of Horncastle Street by Mr George Carver were deferred.
20 Mar 1873
Election of new members.
Retiring members: Messrs. Blackburn, Gibson & Wadsworth. None of whom sough re-election.
The 3 newly elected members were declared as: Mr William Anderton, worsted spinner; Titus Berry, flannel manufacturer and C. Dawson, draper.
Others who contested the election were: Robert Swires, maltster; George Crossley, engineer; Joseph Preston, currier; Joe Green Hey, India rubber manufacturer; Benjamin Hepworth, manufacturing chemist and Frank Scott, grocer.
Out of the respect to the death last week of Mr. George Anderton, JP., not one public meeting has been held.
21 Mar 1873
Meeting of the Local Board to decide the course that the Board should adopt relating to the appointment of a medical officer of health. A meeting of local authorities had resolved that several authorities should unite and appoint one officer for the whole of the North Bierley district. Mr Anderton proposed that the appointment be made in accordance with that resolution and Mr Sykes contended that it would interfere with the independent action of the Board.
9 Apr 1873
First meeting of the "new" year.
Mr. Law was re-elected as Chairman. The Clerk was also re-appointed to his duties as was Mr. I F Oates as Treasurer and Mr. Dawson sub-treasurer.
Various committees were constituted:
Gas - Messrs. H Atkinson, W Anderton, E Stead, A Anderton and the Chairman.
Finance - Messrs. Joseph Sykes, A Anderton, Titus Berry and C Dawson.
General Purposes - Messrs. Joseph Sykes, J Roberts, T Berry, H Atkinson and Wm Anderton.
A draft agreement prepared by Mr George Curry, solicitor on behalf of Mr Dyson Butler was read over and was agreed to.
Sergeant Bowker, inspector, reported that various nuisances had been removed with the exception of four cases where a promise had been made to comply with the Board's regulation. He was ordered to be presented with a gratuity of £5.
Plans for the erection of a weaving shed, engine house, warehouse, etc., by the Cleckheaton Mill Company were submitted and passed.
23 Apr 1873
Meeting. Chairman: Mr Law. Others: Messrs. Joseph Roberts, Joseph Sykes, Edwin Stead, William Anderton, Titus Berry and Christopher Dawson.
A letter from Mr Lancaster, Clerk of the North Bierley Union, on the subject of the appointment of a medical officer. It was now apparent that several townships refused to join and had made appointments of their own. It was decided to defer the matter but to signify that the Board was still willing to join the original scheme, provided a sufficient number of townships combined.
Mr Henry Atkinson (absent) had completed arrangements with Mr George Crossley for the purchase of a portion of his property in Northgate and Horncastle Street for the sum of £150. The widening of Northgate, so long necessary, will be proceeded with at once.
It was suggested that that part of Northgate which is situate at the top of Albion Street should be lowered and paved but this was deferred until members of the Board had visited and that the survey of the Local Board district should made this afternoon.
Mr Anderton stated a complaint had been received of the annoyance created by the dusty state of the streets, when it was decided to place the watering thereof in the hands of the General Purpose Committee.
Mr Roberts drew attention to the leakages in the water mains. It was stated at the board that £5 per week was running to waste. and he thought that it was high time that someone moved in the matter. It was believed the leakage was at Hartshead Moorside. One member believed that this water was from a quarry in the locality. It was passed that Mr Roberts be appointed to take the place of Mr Gibson to look into the repair of leakages in the water mains.
Plans for the erection of four dwelling houses in Prospect Fields, Tofts by Messrs. Joe Ellis & Benjamin Hepworth was passed subject to certain drainage arrangements being carried out.
Plans for the erection of a hayloft by Mr Joseph Swires were also approved.
21 May 1873
Meeting. Chairman: Mr Law. Others: Messrs. Anderton, Berry, Dawson, Roberts, Stead & Sykes.
The meeting was taken up by a letter from the Clerk of the North Bierley Poor-law Guardians stating that another general meeting of representatives from each local authority would be held at Bradford on the 23rd of next month regarding the appointment of a medical officer. Messrs. Law, Atkinson & Sykes were chosen the deputation from the Board.
4 Jun 1873
Meeting. Chairman: Mr Law.
Various accounts presented and paid.
Some plans approved.
16 Jul 1873
Meeting. Chairman: Mr Law.
Mr E Sugden of Oakenshaw attended the Board on behalf of the Oakenshaw Sewer Authority to sign a cheque for the purchase of the water plant there, from the Board for the sum of £150, the Board having agreed to supply Oakenshaw with water at 11d per thousand gallons.
A long and animated discussion took place on the Northgate improvements. Sharp words were exchanged between some members and the Chairman. One member stated that it appeared to him that their Clerk was the master of the whole Board. The Chairman reminded the speaker that a vote of censure had been put upon him and called for his statement to be retracted, which was refused.
It was decided to pave Northgate with delf pavings from the bottom of Railway Street to Tofts Road and to improve Church Street.
The meeting afterwards went into committee to consider the question of enlarging the boundary of the district.
7 Aug 1873
Special meeting.
Members sanctioned the transmission of a letter from their solicitor to the Local Government Board, requesting that a provisional order might be granted for the annexation of that portion of Liversedge which the Local Government Board had thought desirable to unite to Cleckheaton. The Board expressed in the letter regret that Broomfield Mill had not been included in the district which is to be added to that now under their control.
10 Sep 1873
Meeting: Chairman: Mr Alfred Law.
Messrs. Ellis & Hepworth had written to the Board asking that some houses they had recently built in the Whitcliffe might be connected to Board's gas & water mains. Agreed.
The Clerk was ordered to communicate with Mr Butler of the Turnpike Road Committee, requesting him to instruct his men to keep the grates clean.
The Clerk announced that Church Street, in some cases, the notices issued to property owners by the Board, asking them to connect their drains with the main sewer, had been disregarded. Mr. Atkinson suggested that further notices should be served, intimating to the defaulters that if they did not attend to the request, the work would be carried out by the town and the owners charged for the cost. The Clerk produced the necessary notices and it was decided to issue them forthwith.
Sergeant Bowker, nuisance inspector, stated an obstruction of a drain at the bottom of Brook Street, Moorend had caused six or eight houses to be flooded. It was agreed that the place should be visited.
24 Sep 1873
Meeting. Chairman: Mr A Law. Others: Messrs. W Anderton, A Anderton, T Berry, J Roberts, E Stead and J Sykes.
The surveyor's expense amounting to £530 5s 8d were ordered to be paid.
It was decided that the new drain at Whitechapel Lane be continued from the railway arch to Mr. Hirst's houses.
It was proposed to appoint a medical officer of health for Cleckheaton.
The auditor's report had found the accounts satisfactory in all aspects.
8 Oct 1873
The Board advertise for a Medical Officer of Health. The area to be covered is about 700 acres and has a population of between 6 & 7,000. The salary is £25 per annum.
17 Dec 1873
Meeting.
A reduced scale of charges for the services of the fire brigade was ordered to be sent to the various insurance companies in Cleckheaton and the companies were invited to say whether they are willing to pay those terms in case of fires, as the Board is wishful to keep up an efficient fire brigade.
The Clerk was instructed to write to the Scholes, Oakenshaw and Hunsworth authorities to ascertain if they will join in the joint appointment of a medical officer of health and nuisance inspector.
A deputation was formed to confer with Mr Gott of the Bradford Corporation Waterworks, to renew the agreement for the supply of water to the Cleckheaton township.
14 Jan 1874
Meeting. Chairman: Mr A Law. Others: Messrs. W Anderton, T Berry, C Dawson, Joseph Roberts, E. Stead & Joseph Sykes.
The deputation appointed to confer with Bradford Corporation Waterworks reported their results, on which the Board went into committee.
An animated debate took place on the question of the White Chapel Lane improvements. Mr Roberts objected to them being executed as the Board was in a bad financial position. The Board was £2500 in debt and had to pay £45 for interest during the last 6 months. The Chairman stated £4000 was owing to the Board and £1000 had been paid to the bank the previous day. It was stated that the Board was never in a better financial position than at present. On the motion of Mr Sykes, it was resolved to carry out the improvements.
Various accounts and cheques were approved.
11 Feb 1874
Meeting. Chairman: Mr Alfred Law. Others: Messrs. Edwin Stead, Joseph Roberts, Joseph Sykes, Henry Atkinson, William Anderton & C Dawson.
Mr Atkinson, who with Mr Rusling, reported on their visit to Rochdale gasworks. It was better fitted up than anything he had seen before and detailed descriptions of features which took their attention. He foresaw that there would be a scarcity of room at the Cleckheaton gasworks. It was carried that the Gas Committee ascertain the probable or approximate cost of carrying out various improvements to the gasworks.
12 Mar 1874
Local Government Meeting.
Mr Arnold Taylor attended at the Cleckheaton Local Board-room for the purpose of holding an inquiry relative to the transfer of a portion of the township of Gomersal to the Cleckheaton Local Board for sanitary purposes.
The Ratepayers of Gomersal were represented by Messrs. F Burnley, Thos. Broadbent, Daniel Carter & S D Roberts. The Cleckheaton Board was represented by Messrs. Alfred Law (Chairman), Berry, Anderton, Sykes, Atkinson & Hirst (Clerk), along with Mr Wavell, solicitor.
Resolutions were unanimously adopted by both parties and approved of by the Commissioner to the effect that Cleckheaton Local Board will provide for all sewage from any buildings along either side of the Leeds and Elland Road, which lies beyond the limits of the proposed enlarged Local Board district, and other buildings adjacent having a natural fall towards either side of the said Road or towards Spen Beck; and that the Cleckheaton Local Board shall give like facilities to all buildings having a natural fall towards Scratch Lane.
13 Mar 1874
Election of new Board members
Retiring members: A. Law, Edwin Stead & Joseph Roberts.
A total of seven persons were nominated to serve on the Local Board at Cleckheaton, however three of them (T. Barker, C. Seed and A. Hall) have refused to stand. Another two, Messrs. George Crossley and John Hirst have been induced to retire, which leaves the remaining nominees Alfred Law (a retiring member) and E. Wadsworth (an ex-member) being elected without contest. The third new member, being delegated to the first meeting of the new Board.
8 Apr 1874
First meeting of the "new" year.
Mr Law was re-elected as Chairman.
Finance Committee: Messrs. Sykes, Swires, Berry Dawson.
General Purpose Committee: Messrs. Wadsworth, Sykes, Berry, Anderton, Atkinson and Swires.
Waterworks Committee: Messrs. Berry, Wadsworth, Swires, Atkinson and Anderton
An agreement was confirmed for the purchase for £150 from the Gomersal Water Company, of the waterworks plant now laid down in that part of the Gomersal township proposed to be joined to the Cleckheaton Local Board district.
22 Apr 1874
Meeting.
Unfortunately the only newspaper article relating to this is unreadable...
6 May 1874
Meeting. Chairman: Mr Law.
A question was raised as to the legality of Mr W Gaunt's election by the Board to fill a vacancy. It was resolved to take legal advice on the matter.
It was resolved to extend the causeway in Whitecliffe Lane to the top, a distance of about half a mile.
The railway accommodation of the town was condemned as disgraceful. The whole board was appointed a committee to report upon grievances suffered and that report be considered at a special meeting.
Plans for the erection of a mill by Messrs. Clay & Berry were passed.
It was resolved that the coke from gasworks should be sold at 5s a ton.
18 May 1874
Special meeting.
Resolved that a petition to the directors of the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway Company for the revision of the passenger service on the Cleckheaton Branch.
20 May 1874
Meeting. Chairman: Mr A Law.
Contracts for the improved plant at the gasworks were signed by the Board and Mr Dempster, of Elland, gas engineer.
John Drake, the local bellman, was appointed nuisance inspector at a salary of £10 per annum.
The Clerk stated a case of small pox had occurred in Northgate and was instructed to report the case to the Board's medical officer immediately.
A memorial was submitted from the inhabitants of The Mount, Gomersal, asking for water pipes be extended to their area. Matter was deferred until the settlement of the annexation scheme.
Mr Sykes gave notice that in a month he should move that the Board purchase Cleckheaton Green, or the Town Green, including the George Hotel.
5 Jun 1874
Mr William Gaunt, grocer, who was the member of the Local Board subject to the allegation of being illegally elected, resigns his position.
15 Jun 1874
Meeting. Chairman: Mr Alfred Law.
Mr Thos. Burnup had offered to present to the Board a portion of land in Whitcliffe Lane for the purpose of widening the same, on condition that the Board re-erect the fence wall. The offer was accepted.
The Clerk was instructed to prepare a statement of the financial position of the gasworks.
Dr. H O Steele, medical officer of health, reported that there is no further outbreak of small pox in the town, but several cases of scarlet fever had come to notice.
29 Jun 1874
Meeting. Chairman: Mr Alfred Law.
Mr Steele, the Board's medical officer of health reported a further spread of small pox in the district since his last report. The disease is confined to the Moor Bottom district where there are 6 cases, 5 of them being in one house. The Board recommended the removal of the first victim to the Bradford Fever Hospital, but this was ignored and is clearly the one responsible for the spread. This case proved fatal on Monday.
Mr Steele also reported more cases of scarlet fever in the same locality, which he was afraid will necessarily be an unhealthy part of the town so long as the beck remains in its present condition.
The question of the price to be charged to consumers of water in the out districts was discussed and it was resolved that the price of water by meter to consumers outside of the Board's district be one fifth more than consumers in the district.
13 Jul 1874
Meeting. Chairman: Mr Alfred Law.
Mr Steele. the Medical Officer of Health, reported one further case of small pox at Moorbottom, that of a 14 day old infant.
During the past month there have been 18 deaths within the Board's district, making a total of 37 deaths from all causes during the last quarter.
8 Aug 1874
Meeting. Chairman: W. Anderton. Others: H Atkinson, T Berry, C Dawson & E Wadsworth
Messrs. Wadsworth & Berry were deputed to confer with Mr Thomas Bateman (sic...should be Burnup) with a view to widening Whitcliff Lane.
Messrs. Upton & Co, gave notice to the Board that they would require a water service to be laid to Cleckheaton New Mill Company's shed for wool washing purposes.
The Clerk was instructed to write to the applicants asking what quantity would be needed as the Board didn't wish to lay the pipe unless it was remunerative.
A new rate of 1s 8d in the pound for general district purposes be laid on the 1st of October.
24 Aug 1874
Meeting. Chairman: Alfred Law. Others: W Anderton, T Berry, C Dawson, R Swires, J Sykes & E Wadsworth
The Clerk informed the Board that the improvements and extension of the gas plant were complete.
The surveyor informed Mr Dawson that a certain portion of his property in Whitcliffe Lane required altering in order to effect some improvements and he conested to the said proposals.
It was resolved that a service of water mains be laid from the Moor End Tollbar to the New Mill Company's mill for Messrs. Upton & Co.
A letter from Mr Lipscombe, Saville Estate agent, regarding a supply of water to Hunsworth was to be forwarded to the Hunsworth Local Board.
Mr Sykes gave notice of a motion for the next meeting that the Board consider the question of electing another Guardian to represent Cleckheaton on the North Bierley Poor-law Board.
Mr Steele, the Board's medical officer reported during the past month there had been 13 deaths from all causes.
21 Sep 1874
Meeting. Chairman: Mr Alfred Law. Others: Messrs. Wm Anderton, T Berry, R Swires, J Sykes & E Wadsworth.
Usual accounts presented and payments authorised.
Mr Sykes suggested that the income of the Board should be published monthly, in addition to the expenditure.
The Board resolved on a motion of Mr Swires to present a memorial to the directors of the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway Company requesting better passenger accommodation.
19 Oct 1874
Meeting. Chairman: Mr A Law.
Mr Maleham, manager of the Halifax Gasworks, having, at the invitation of the Board, made an inspection of the gasworks, expressed himself well pleased at the extensive alterations made so far and stated that all the Board needed now was a good gasholder.
A memorial was read presented by Mr Normanton, district superintendent of the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway Company asking for improved passenger service between Cleckheaton and surrounding towns.
Plans were approved for the erection of a villa residence in Whitcliffe by Mr C Dawson and for a Masonic hall.
The Medical Officer, Dr. Steele, stated during the last month there were 11 deaths in the district from all causes. During the last week he had received information of 3 deaths from typhoid fever.
5 Nov 1874
Meeting.
The nuisance inspector reported 6 cases of scarlet fever in Quarry Road which were attributed to bad drainage. A resolution was passed empowering the inspector to proceed against persons who had neglected to abate nuisances in respect of which they had received notice.
16 Nov 1874
Meeting.
The Medical Officer, Dr. Steele, reported a considerable increase in the death rate of the past month, chiefly owing to the prevalence of scarlet fever in the district which has caused 9 deaths. Typhoid fever has caused 3, diarrhea one, ulcerated throat 2 and hydrophalus 3. The main cases of scarlet fever were around Moorbottom and 3 deaths had happened in Quarry Road where the drains are in an unsatisfactory state. He stated that so long as the beck along Moorbottom remains in its present state it will always be a fruitful source of disease.
It was resolved that owners of property in Quarry Road be ordered to keep the road in repair.
A committee was formed to communicate with the trustees of the Leeds and Whitehall Turnpike Road as to their intention to apply to Parliament for an extension of the terms and continuance of the powers granted by the Leeds and Whitehall Turnpike Roads Act 1853, with a view to improve the present state of the turnpike roads in Cleckheaton, which the Chairman described as "disgraceful."
14 Dec 1874
Meeting. Chairman: Mr Alfred Law. Others not named
The tender of Mr John Wooller of Laisterdyke was accepted for the erection of a new gasholder.
Various accounts were presented.
Attention of the Board was drawn to the bad state of the roads in Whitechapel Lane, New Lane and Northgate.
The medical officer reported that there had been 21 deaths in the past month, against 24 in the previous. Scarlatina had caused 7 deaths, but mainly were in the early part of the month, he thought the disease was abating. The variable and cold weather was blamed for an increase in deaths from bronchitis and heart affections but on the whole he considered the health of the town was good with deaths being 3 per 1000 inhabitants.
The question of renaming some of the streets was brought forward but nothing definite was done about the matter.
28 Dec 1874
Meeting. Chairman: Mr Law.
Albion Street was declared a public highway and several streets were renamed.
Some amusement was caused by the reading of a letter from officers of the Christian Brethren who wished a certain thoroughfare to be called Chapel Street, thinking that as the chapel was some distance from the highway, it would advantageous to the society.
A number of other streets, some previously not named were also given proposed names.
Brook Street at Moorend would become Brooklyn Street; Stanley Lane at Whitcliffe would become Stanley Street; Syke's Buildings would become Sykes Street; the street leading to Moorbottom Chapel would be named Shaw Street.
Several streets off Westgate were also named: The street opposite Upper House would be called Carr Street in recognition of the ingenious Mr William Carr Thornton; Further up near the Congregational Chapel streets would be named Bank Street, Bedford Street, Wood Street, Taylor Street and Brick Street. Iron Street, Lime Street and Stone Streets would compliment their neighbours of Wood & Brick Streets.
Report from nuisance inspector was read but not dealt with.
8 Feb 1875
Meeting. Chairman: Mr Wadsworth. Others: Messrs. Anderton, Berry, Dawson and Swires.
Dr. Steele, the medical officer, presented his report. There had been 85 deaths in the last half year. Caused by: Scarlet fever 22, typhoid fever 5, diarrhea 4, chest affections 23 and the remainder of various causes. 55 of the deaths were those of children under five years of age.
The medical officer and nuisance inspector had visited 113 houses and other premises in the past 6 months and had served 276 notices to abate nuisances, all of which had been complied with. Scarlet fever was extinct in the township but at present there are four cases of typhoid fever, which could be traced to bad drainage in one case.
The tender of Messrs. Wigglesworth & Ellison was accepted for the purchase of gas tar and ammoniacal liquor produced at the gasworks.
Plans for nine cottages at Moor End by Mr J Pearson were passed as well as for cottages at Moor Side by Mr H Firth.
Two villa residences in Mount Street by Mr J Law were also passed.
Plans for a new chapel to be built by the United Methodist Free Church were deferred on account of the drainage course not being defined.
22 Feb 1875
Meeting. Chairman: Mr Alfred Law.
A deputation was to be formed to confer with representatives from Liversedge, Heckmondwike and North Bierley Boards respecting the desirability of opposing anew lease being granted to the Commissioners of the Leeds and Whitehall turnpike road, the present lease being about to expire.
Mr Sykes reported that the Local Government Board, London had decided to allow the appointment of an additional guardian to the North Bierley Board of Guardians to represent Cleckheaton. The Chairman was appointed the returning officer to conduct the election, which takes place in March.
Regarding the proposed registration of gas meters, it was resolved that in cases where a meter be found standing the clerk should serve the parties with a notice. It was also agreed that cards be got to be attached to the meters for the purpose of registering thereof the quantity of gas consumed.
8 Mar 1875
Meeting. Chairman: Mr Law.
Dr. Steel, medical officer of health, reported an additional case of typhoid fever which resulted in the escape of sewage gases from a defective drain. In the last month there had been 9 deaths in the district. 6 were from chest affections and 2 from scarlet fever.
It was resolved by the Board that the mill owners generally in the district be requested to attach valves to the gas mains adjoining their premises, in order to prevent the gas from having to be turned off at the gasworks and the whole town being placed in darkness, as had been the case only recently.
A lengthy discussion on the proposal of the Bradford Corporation to advance on the present scale of charges had been given from 6d to 9d per 1000 gallons. This advance was considered too much and indignation was manifested by the Board at the attitude assumed by the Bradford Corporation. It was resolved that the clerk should confer with the different local boards supplied with water by the Corporation as to the proposed advance.
22 Mar 1875
Meeting. Chairman: Mr Law.
The Chairman, having consulted with Mr Wavell, solicitor for the Board, with reference to the fact that the approaching election , four members would be elected instead of three, one of whom will only have to serve two years. It was resolved that the member with the fewest votes should be the one to retire and in case of a tie, the chairman should ballot.
9 Apr 1875
Election of new members.
New members elected: Messrs. Joseph Sykes, John Hirst, Robert Swires and H F Cockill.
Other nominees: Alfred Firth, H Atkinson and George Hartley.
19 Apr 1875
First meeting of the "new" year.
The usual formalities were gone through by the newly elected members.
Mr W. Anderton was elected as Chairman, Mr Law having held that position for 3 years.
Mr I F Oates was re-appointed as Treasurer with Mr C Dawson as sub-treasurer.
Finance Committee: Messrs. Sykes, Cockhill, Dawson & Swires.
General Purpose Committee: Messrs. Berry, Sykes, Wadsworth, Law, Swires & Hirst.
Gas Committee: The whole Board
Mr D Hirst was re-elected as Clerk and surveyor.
Plans for a new street by Messrs. Slinger & Naylor were passed on condition that those persons take responsibility as to the diversion of a certain footpath.
3 May 1875
Meeting. Chairman: Mr Anderton.
Mr Sykes gave notice of a motion for the next meeting to the effect that in all future cases of renewal of gas meters, the Board supply the meters and charge a percentage on the same.
A memorial to Parliament opposing a further lease being granted to the Commissioners of the Leeds and Whitehall Turnpike Road, obtained the signature and seal of the Board. Messrs Sykes and Berry were appointed to go round the township and obtain the signatures of the inhabitants to the above.
Various accounts were discussed and approved.
It was resolved to advertise for about 3000 tons of screened and unscreened coal, to be supplied over a period of 12 months.
Plans were approved for the erection of a smith's shop by Messrs J & B Umpleby and an erection by Mr Mark Ward.
31 May 1875
Meeting. Chairman: Mr W Anderton.
The Board resolved to sign an agreement for a renewal of the supply of water by the Bradford Corporation for three years.
A committee was appointed to prepare a statement into the expenditure and receipts of the gasworks.
The medical officer's report showed two more cases of typhoid fever in Pavement Street in a house where several previous cases had occurred. The outbreak was attributed to a defective drain. Nine deaths had been registered during the last month, none of which arose from preventable causes.
Plans for dwellings by Messrs. Samuel Roberts, William Roberts and Joseph Robinson were approved.
14 Jun 1875
Meeting.
Dr. Steele, the medical officer of health submitted his report. There had been 19 deaths during the last month, an increase in 10 on his last report. 9 of the additional deaths were caused by preventable causes.
The Clerk stated that the scarlet fever in Pavement Street had arisen from the bad state of the privies behind the houses. The liquid from the privies ran down into the cellars of the houses. After some discussion it was resolved that Messrs. Sykes, Swires and Hirst be a committee to see that the street drain was properly connected with the main drain.
Mr Hy Atkinson, ex-member of the Board, wrote to the chairman and stated that he had it on good authority that owing to the goods accommodation at the railway station being unequal to the traffic, the railway company had it in contemplation to partially pull down the Whitliffe Bridge. Mr Atkinson thought that now would be the time to memorialise the directors to reconstruct the bridge higher the lane opposite to the Whitcliffe Road, thereby improving the approach to the station as well as to Whitcliffe Lane. Messrs. Law, Wadsworth & the Chairman were appointed a committee to enquire into the subject.
A motion to the effect that Board sell out all the plant at the old gasworks, including the gas holder, pipes and all connections, was carried.
The question of providing public baths was mooted. The Chairman and other members expressed themselves in favour.
28 Jun 1875
Meeting. Chairman: Mr W Anderton.
It was ordered that notice be given to Mr Balmforth's trustee to carry out the wishes of the Board with respect to the draining of Pavement Street.
The Board appointed J Milson of Moldgreen, the inspector and repairer of meters at 30s per week, and W Bridge of Sheffield , the foreman gas stoker at the same salary.
The Clerk reported that he had already advertised the plant at the old gasworks for sale and had received 3 applications. The matter was deferred until the next meeting.
The removal of night soil for a period of 12 months, the tender of Mr George Longbottom, Hunsworth, was accepted.
Various financial matters were dealt with.
Plans for 10 dwelling houses and a shop at Moor End by the Cleckheaton Co-operative Society were approved.
Plans for a number of houses also at Moor End by the Cleckheaton Building Society were also approved.
Plans for the erection of a fire-proof mill and warehouse at Victoria Mills by Messrs. George Anderton & Son were approved.
Plans for the making of a new street at Moor End on the Saville Estate were approved
Plans for the erection of a house at Brookhouses were rejected.
12 Jul 1875
Meeting. Chairman Mr Anderton.
Dr. Steele, the medical officer of health, reported that there were 13 deaths during the last month. Only one of the deaths was attributed to scarlet fever.
No details of any other business reported.
26 Jul 1875
Meeting. Chairman Mr Wadsworth.
Finances presented. Income: £326. Expenditure: £173 5s 5d.
A deputation was appointed to attend a conference of local authorities respecting a conjoint scheme for the drainage of Cleckheaton, Liversedge & Heckmondwike.
9 Aug 1875
Meeting. Chairman: Mr Anderton.
The Board resolved to make a main sewer in Whitcliffe.
The conference for the conjoint scheme for drainage will be held this Thursday.
Mr James Rusling, gas works manager, sent in notice of his intention of resigning on the 31st,
In consequence of the death of the nuisance inspector, the Board resolved to advertise for a successor as well as for a gas manager.
23 Aug 1875
Meeting. Chairman: Mr Anderton. Others: Messrs. Sykes, Wadsworth, Swires, Berry, Hirst, Cockill and Law.
Messrs. Mark Field, John Greenwood, Dan Ira Butler and Thomas Naylor had made written application for nuisance inspector. It was carried that Mr Butler be elected.
It was resolved to repeat the advertisement for tenders for the extension of a main sewer in the Whitcliffe.
A lengthy discussion took place over the proposals to improve Water Lane. The Board were generally in favour of the improvements but the cost would be enormous. Mr Lipscombe had already contributed and the area borders on the Gomersal and Hunsworth Boards' districts. It was eventually agreed that the matter be referred to the General Purpose Committee who should also liaise with Mr Reuben Castle regarding a plan.
Plans submitted by Mr. Bateman for a new street extending from Peaseland to Westgate was deferred.
A workman for Messrs. Slinger and Naylor, attended to ask the Board for an "allowance", which he said was usual to be given on completion of a contract. He also stated it was custom to have a "finishing supper". The applicant was sharply examined as to the morale of his claim. The Board stated he had received his wages for the contract and it was not reasonable that he should make any further claim and he was desired to withdraw.
The question of the proposed amalgamated drainage scheme was then discussed. After a lengthy exchange, it was decided to drop the matter until the intentions of the Government were fully known.
1 Sep 1875
Special meeting.
Upwards of 50 applications for the position of gas manager had been received. The Board appointed Mr Bridge, the foreman stoker, to succeed Mr Rusling.
20 Sep 1875
Meeting. Chairman: Mr Anderton. Others: Messrs. Sykes, Berry, Hirst, Law and Wadsworth.
Mr Leather of Lark Hill and Squire Roberts of Moorside attended to complain of the great scarcity of gas in their neighbourhood. It was agreed that the Clerk should cause a search to be made for the supposed defect or leak.
Mr Hirst stated that the architect, Mr Castle had agreed to prepare plans for the Water Lane improvements for £5 providing he was entrusted with superintendence of the works.
The tender of Messrs. Pearson and Sons was accepted for the completion of the main drain in the Whitcliffe.
It was resolved that the old gasholder and all the connections in the yard be advertised for sale.
Dr. Steele, medical, reported 16 detahs in the district last month, none of which were by preventable causes.
Plans for an office and shed by Mr Wadsworth were approved.
4 Oct 1875
Meeting. Chairman: Mr Anderton
It was resolved, on a division, that the terms of the sale of plant of the old gas works should be considered in committee.
Dr. Steele, medical officer, stated there had been 12 deaths in September. The only preventable death resulting from whooping cough.
It was stated that the Railway Company were advertising for tenders for proposed alterations in the Whitcliffe Bridge, and as the Board had a recommendation to make to the Company, the subject was left in hands of the Chairman and Messrs. Wadsworth & Law.
The Board decided that the price for gas meter rent should be 3d per year on the two and three light meters and on all other sizes that a charge at the rate of 10 per cent, on the cost of the meter and tap made.
18 Oct 1875
Meeting. Chairman: Mr Anderton. Others: Messrs. Berry, Wadsworth, Law, Sykes, Dawson & Hirst.
The usual accounts and finances were dealt with.
Plans submitted by Mr Isaac Preston for the erection of two houses were approved.
Plans submitted by Mr Cockill were referred back.
A committee, having made a survey of the district as to the necessity of erecting additional lamps presented a report which was adopted.
Messrs Law & Wadsworth had attended Manchester and met with some directors of the Railway Company and produced a plan of the proposed alterations. The alterations proposed by the company were to pierce the bridge on either side, thus making two additional arches for increased riding accommodation. The deputation showed the directors and engineer that it would be more advantageous if the bridge was moved further up. The directors stated that if the Board would straighten the road and secure for the railway company free of cost, the triangular piece of ground to the west of the line would further contribute the sum of £1000. The company would build a new bridge. It was resolved that the Board needed more time to consider this matter.
15 Nov 1875
Meeting. Chairman: Mr Anderton.
A letter was read from the Leeds and Whitehall trustees which proposed to apportion between the several local authorities through whose district the road pass in proportion to the fair average legitimate expenditure by each district. The Board stated that they were only going to consider the question when a definite proposal was made.
Mr Sykes proposed that a general district rate of 1s 8d in the pound be laid on the whole district, which was seconded by Mr Hirst and passed.
Dr. Steele, medical officer of health, reported just seven deaths in the previous months. There were three cases of scarlet fever in Quarry Road and a case of typhoid fever at Moor End.
Numerous complaints had been received about the illuminating power of the gas manufactured by the Board. It was proposed that a proper photometer be obtained so that the ratepayers might know whether it was the poor quality of the gas or defective mains which was the cause.
19 Nov 1875
Auction held at the Royal Hotel, Cleckheaton when Mr William Holdroyd, innkeeper of Littletown purchased the old Cleckheaton Local Board gasworks situate at Rawfolds along with a dwelling house recently occupied by the manager for £950. Mr Pearson of Cleckheaton purchased the gas holder, which was 40ft in diameter, for £40.
30 Nov 1875
Meeting. Chairman: Mr Law.
Plans were passed for a villa at Snelsins by Mr. Arthur Anderton; Certain alterations to premises at Whitcliffe by Mr. H F Cockill and a stable in Westgate by Mr. Thomas Bateman.
A resolution was passed calling upon the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway Company to furnish plans for the proposed alterations to the Whitcliffe Bridge.
Further complaints made to the Board regarding the quality of the gas supplied to ratepayers.
13 Dec 1875
Meeting.
The usual finances dealt with.
The medical officer of health reported 13 deaths in the last month. There were no further cases of scarlet fever in Quarry Road.
Following the complaints about the Board's gas supply. It had been tested and found to be satisfactory. A long and animated discussion took place with no results.
24 Jan 1876
Meeting.
The new district rate was ordered to be laid.
Mr Cockill was placed on the Gas Committee.
Mr Ratcliffe was ordered to be summoned before the Board for taking off the front of a large meter at Messrs. S Law & Sons.
The sanitary inspector was ordered to watch the milk dealers and report those who weakened or diluted their milk in any way.
Mr Bridge, the gas manager attended and stated that some new retorts would soon be needed and that of another clerk.
21 Feb 1876
Meeting. Chairman: Mr Anderton
Mr Alfred Law was unanimously appointed returning officer for the forthcoming election of new members.
A deputation appointed to confer with Messrs. Slinger & Naylor of Scholes for the purchase of a portion of a field at Whitcliffe, which the Board desired for purposes of widening the road, reported that a concession had been made on condition that the Board erect a dry fence wall with lime copings. The Board accepted the offer.
The Board decided to purchase a steam engine and boiler for the gasworks.
A long discussion followed on the subject of the present muddy state of the roads. It was resolved that that the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway Company be required to pave and drain Tofts Street and Tofts Road, which are approaches to the station.
20 Mar 1876
Meeting. Chairman: Mr Anderton.
Dr. Steele, medical officer of health, reports that there had been 11 deaths in the last month.
The nuisance inspector reported he had made purchases of milk from four different dealers in the district and had them analysed. One of these samples was adulterated and the Board resolved to institute proceedings against the offending dealer.
The Board decided to publish the accounts of the gasworks.
It was decided that the price of gas to consumers be reduced from 4s 6d per 1000 feet to 4s 2d.
Letters were received calling upon the Board to make repairs to Rawfolds Bridge and also from the secretary of the Rawfolds & District Water Supply Company to make certain reductions in the price of water. Both matters referred to a committee.
7 Apr 1876
Election of new members
Retiring members: Messrs. William Anderton, Christopher Dawson & Titus Berry.
Nominees: The above 3 plus; Messrs. Matthew Fearnley, gentleman; Mark Field, greengrocer; John Gill, manufacturer; William Halliday, manufacturing chemist; Sam Hodgson, gentleman; Squire Roberts, card maker; William Roberts, contractor; George Stead, iron founder and Sam Wood, machine maker.
New members voted on: Messrs. William Anderton, Titus Berry & John Gill.
10 Apr 1876
First meeting of the "new" year.
The medical officer reported there had been 11 deaths in the previous month.
Plans for the erection of 2 residences at Hunsworth Moor by William Roberts were approved.
Plans for the alteration and addition to a house by Mr A Law were approved.
Plans for 2 cottages in Heaton Street by Mr B Longbottom were approved.
Plans for 3 cottages in Whitechapel Lane, along with several conveniences by John Hirst were approved.
Various accounts presented and dealt with.
A list of charges of the Local Board fire brigade for attendance at the late fire at Whitechapel chemical works was referred to the Chairman for settlement.
1 May 1876
Meeting. Chairman: W. Anderton. Others: Messrs. Hirst, Cockill, Berry, Wadsworth, Gill and Swires.
Mr Taylor, accountant, attended and a considerable time was spent inspecting the books. It was arranged that Mr Taylor examine them and report to the Board.
Plans were approved as follows: A double house in St. Peg Lane by George Wilkinson; two double houses at the top of New Lane by Messrs. Hemingway & Liley; a new street from Westgate to Whitcliffe by Messrs. Clough & berry; two houses at Hartshead Moor by H.F. Pearson and the rebuilding of the Carriage and Pair Inn, Northgate, but J.R. Holmes.
It was reported that Mr Blamires had resigned the office of collector and Benjamin Clough was appointed to receive money at the office until a new collector is appointed.
Messrs. Gill, Berry and Cockill were deputed as a committee to meet with the auditor.
16 May 1876
Adjourned meeting. Chairman: Mr Anderton.
The Board having under consideration the proposed enlargement of its district by the addition of the rural sanitary districts of Scholes and Oakenshaw, it was unanimously resolved, "that in the event of such enlargement being conceded by the Local Government Board, this Board recommend that the number of members be increased from nine to twelve. That nine such members be elected by the present district as at present, two for Scholes and one for Oakenshaw. Each of these hamlets electing its own members and that the assets and liabilities of Cleckheaton, as well as of each hamlet, be kept distinct, with separate accounts." It was agreed that the whole of the Board should be present at the Board-rooms at the inquiry to be held this day by Lieut. Col. P Cox, and that the Chairman, Mr Land and Mr Gill should give evidence on behalf of the Board.
The appointment of a collector was next discussed at length. 46 applications along with testimonials had been received. Mr Wood of the Corporation Offices, Bradford was eventually appointed at a salary of 1? per cent commission.
For the clerkship, 40 applications had been received which were reduced to nine, the consideration of which was adjourned.
29 May 1876
Meeting. Chairman: Mr Anderton.
Dr. Steele, medical officer of health, reported just five deaths in the last month, 3 of which were infants under 1 year.
Plans submitted for a villa residence and premises at Victoria Mount were passed.
Remainder of the business was of no public interest.
12 Jun 1876
Meeting. Chairman: Mr Wadsworth. All others present except Mr Anderton.
Mr Jos. Armitage was the newly appointed Clerk.
The medical officer of health, Dr. Steele, reported 23 deaths in the previous month from various causes and ages. Many deaths from respiratory problems attributed to the very inclement weather. There were several cases of measles in Westgate but only in a mild form.
It was resolved that general instructions be given for the streets of the town to be watered during the summer months.
It was decided that the district be divided into three wards for scavenging purposes and that the General Purpose Committee see to the proper formation of such wards.
The Board resolved that a register be kept for reference of all new buildings and all alterations of buildings within their district, and that a stock book be purchased in which to record the whole of the transactions of the Board.
The Gas Committee were empowered to invite tenders for coal for gas making purposes for the next 12 months.
24 Jul 1876
Meeting. Chairman: Mr Wadsworth.
The Crosland Coal Company waited upon the Board to sign a contract for the supply of gas and channel coal for gas making.
The usual finances were dealt with.
Several applications for gas to be laid on were referred to the Gas Committee.
Mr J D Butler, surveyor for the Leeds and Whitehall Road Commissioners, sent a letter requesting the Board to take charge, for repair, of the portions of the road within their district. The Board, after a brief discussion, refused to accept this.
Plans for the erection of a semi-detached villa residence at Peaselands by Mr J H Knowles were approved.
Plans for the rebuilding of the Carriage and Pair Inn, Northgate were also approved.
18 Sep 1876
Meeting. Chairman: Mr Anderton
Dr. Steele presented his report. There had been 15 deaths in the previous month. He believed the measles epidemic was on the decline. There was a case of typhoid fever at Tofts where all of the family had also suffered from diarrhea. He requested the Board to take stringent measures for the abatement of the nuisance caused by an adjacent tannery.
2 Oct 1876
Meeting. Chairman: Mr Anderton
Plans for the erection of a classroom to the Wesleyan Sunday School were approved.
Plans for a packing room at Moorland Mills by Messrs. S Law & Sons were approved.
Plans for a stable and storeroom at the Old Foundry by Messrs. John Stead & Son were approved.
The Board resolved to erect several additional lamps in their district.
Mr Balmforth of Whitcliffe Tannery attended the meeting to explain his nuisance. The Board resolved that Mr Balmforth had a month to abate the nuisance or a summons would be taken out against him.
16 Oct 1876
Meeting. Chairman: Mr Anderton. Others: Messrs. Wadsworth, Law, Berry, Swires, Cockill, Gill & Hirst.
The usual finance was discussed at length. Mr Gill urged that the Finance Committee should go through the outstanding water rents and ascertain what remain before the collector commence with any fresh accounts. It was resolved that a meeting be held this evening to consider the outstanding accounts.
The medical officer's report showed 9 deaths in the last month, none were from preventable causes.
13 Nov 1876
Meeting. Chairman: Mr Gill
The medical officer reported 11 deaths in the last month. 6 of them were under 5 years of age. The officer having examined a sample of water from a pump at the lower end of Rope Walk in the Whitcliffe, pronounced it to be unfit for drinking purposes. He stated that it could be clearly demonstrated that the impurity percolated through the strata from the tannery above. Mr Anderton had communicated with the owner of the pump, who stated he intended to remove the pump in order to prevent danger.
A memorial signed by many residents of Moor End stated they had, for a long time, felt the need of a public clock in that district, but that the need had been supplied by the erection of the one at Messrs. S Law & Sons mill, but they now asked that it might be lighted with gas from the Local Board mains. The request was not agreed to on the ground that it forms a dangerous precedent for the Board to supply gas for such purposes to private premises.
It was resolved to put down a hydrant at the end of Canary Street, for the purpose of more readily supplying water in case of fire in that area.
Mr Wood, the collector, applied for and obtained permission to take out warrants against various defaulters for non-payment of rates.
Plans for an additional room to a house at Moor End by Mr Haley were approved.
Plans for alterations to Elder House and for the erection of 4 houses and a cart shed at Peg Lane by Mr H Atkinson were approved.
Plans for a boiler house and chimney to be added to the works of Mr Wm Isherwood in Westgate were approved.
11 Dec 1876
Meeting. Chairman: Mr Anderton. Others: Messrs. Cockhill, Berry, Gill, Wadsworth, Hirst, Swires & Law
The Gas Committee reported that the month prior to 1st Dec 4,236,000 feet of gas had been turned into the main. This was in comparison to to 3,736,000 feet for the same period the previous year. It was suggested that the pressure of the gas should be continued at 2½ inches as it was at the closing of the manufactories from 6 to 7 o'clock in the evening. The recommendation had been tried from Saturday night to Monday morning and 40,000 feet more gas than usual had been consumed. Mr Berry stated the pressure ought not to have been increased unless complaints had been made. Mr Wadsworth stated complaints had been made and Mr Gill stated if the pressure was continued it would result in heavier gas bills, which in the main would fall upon cottage consumers who, as a rule, did not understand the management of their meters. Mr Berry moved the recommendation from the Gas Committee should not be entertained and that pressure be reduced to 2 inches from 6 to 11 o'clock. The motion was lost by four to three.
Minutes of the General Purpose Committee were opposed by Mr Cockill in so far as they referred to the erection of a lamp between Scott Lane and the police station. The Swires defended the proposal and the minutes were carried.
Mr Cockill stated it was two months since a motion was passed to repair Northgate and it yet remained in the same condition. From reading the surveyor's report, it appeared that something had been commenced.
A new district rate of 1s 8d in the pound was agreed to and will be laid at the first meeting in January.
The medical officer reported 17 deaths in the previous month in consequence of the low state of the atmosphere. 10 of the deaths were of infants under 12 months.
Plans for the erection of 6 cottages in Whitechapel Lane by Mr John Hirst were approved.
Plans for cottages to be built at Moorend by Messrs. S Haley & Son were also approved.
21 Dec 1876
Special meeting.
A lengthy discussion took place regarding the bad quality of the gas. Mr Bridge was instructed to cause an immediate improvement.
An offer of a strip of land for the widening of Snelsins Lane was made to the Board and accepted with thanks.
8 Jan 1877
Meeting. Chairman: Mr William Anderton
Mr Wilson represented the inhabitants of Oakenshaw and attended the meeting to ask for the Board's signature to the petition the the Local Government Board against being annexed to North Bierley, preferring to form part of the Cleckheaton district. A lengthy conversion followed and it was unanimously resolved that the petition be signed and that in the event of Scholes and Oakenshaw joining the Local Board district, then separate accounts to be kept of the two hamlets.
The Clerk submitted the new district rate at 1s 8d in the pound.
Mr Sykes asked if the Gas Committee had any explanation as to the recent complaints on the quality of gas, that would satisfy the public. The Chairman stated nobody was more dissatisfied with the varying and often bad quality than the Gas Committee. Mr Wadsworth, Mr Law and himself were tolerably large consumers and were as much interested as anyone in the gas being better. He reminded the Board that the alterations were not completed. Mr Sykes said that much expense had been incurred on the works, but under the new management, the gas had been worse than ever. The Chairman disputed this but said the committee had had to contend with an old concern and until they got the new refiners, gas holders and retorts, they would have constant difficulty. Mr Wadsworth said that the committee had two points in view. To Make a good article and to make the works pay. The matter was soon afterwards dropped.
5 Feb 1877
Meeting. Chairman: Mr Anderton
A letter was read from Mr Joshua Blamires, the late rate collector to the Board, in reference to the alleged discrepancies in his accounts, and purporting to be a response to a former letter from the Clerk, setting forth the particulars of the discrepancies as arrived at in an investigation of the accounts on the part of the Board. Mr Blamires allegedly owed £11 9s 8d but the letter claims he owed a commission which is £3 5s 3d in excess of this amount and asked the Board to remit him the same. The matter was not discussed further and was delegated to a committee.
A letter from Mr Arnold Taylor, Local Government Board Inspector was read in reference to to a united drainage scheme which had formed a Local Government Board inquiry at Liversedge recently and the desirability of Local Boards in the area of the Spen Beck combining for the purposes of sewerage dispersal.
20 Mar 1877
Meeting. Chairman: William Anderton.
Correspondence was read which had been received from North Bierley Board with reference to the annexation of Oakenshaw to North Bierley. Memorials had been received praying that Oakenshaw join with Cleckheaton and the Local Government Board were disposed to accede to the request of the memorialists but they would be glad to receive observations of the North Bierley Board before a final conclusion is made. Mr Wavell, solicitor to the Cleckheaton Board has been instructed to take the necessary steps.
A discussion followed on the subject of the drainage question. It was stated that the Board had not yet obtained the owners' consent to go through the land and they went into committee on the subject.
30 Mar 1877
Election of new members
Retiring members: E Wadsworth, H F Cockill & Alfred Law
Elected members: E Wadsworth, H F Cockill & J Clay
Mr Alfred Law withdrew his nomination so there was no contest.
16 Apr 1877
New Board meeting.
Mr Anderton, the retiring Chairman and refusing to stand again, proposed Mr Joseph Sykes, who was elected. He also declared the election of Messrs. Cockill, Clay and Wadsworth.
The various committees were appointed and all the officers were re-elected.
The proceedings were at times somewhat acrimonious, Mr Clay declaring that if there had not been gross mismanagement, the gas department would have yielded a profit of £1500 a year.
30 Apr 1877
Meeting. Chairman: Joseph Sykes.
A letter from the trustees of the Leeds and Whitehall turnpike road was read, asking for a definite answer, within a month, from the Board, as to whether they would accept the sum apportioned to their district of £225, to be annually expended upon their roads in Cleckheaton for repairing the portion of such roads. The matter was referred to the General Purpose Committee.
It was resolved to prohibit the attendance of the Board's fire brigade at fires on premises outside the Board's district, should the owners of such refuse to sign a tariff of charges for services of the brigade, should they be required.
A letter of resignation was read from Mr Wadsworth and Mr Clay expressed a hope that the Board would not go into mourning in consequence!
18 May 1877
Misappropriation of funds.
An article appears in the newspapers stating an investigation into the accounts of the Cleckheaton Local Board has disclosed a series of defalcations extending over some years and amounting to the region of £250. No other details are known but three members of the Local Board have been appointed as a committee to draw up a comprehensive report on the irregularities. The late Clerk is dead, the collector resigned a considerable time ago and it is the general feeling that the late collector has been rather a victim of duplicity than a party to the commission of a deliberate fraud.
28 May 1877
Meeting.
The Board resolved to memorialise the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway Company to reopen the crossing recently closed at Cleckheaton railway station, or provide some equivalent accommodation.
Three members were to sit on the School Attendance Committee of the North Bierley Union.
A number of plans and accounts submitted were passed and several matters relegated to committee.
It was resolved to accept the £225 from the Road Commissioners for the repair of the road lying within the limits of the Board's district.
It was also resolved to to recommend the Local Government Board to grant four members to Scholes and Oakenshaw, when those places become amalgamated with Cleckheaton.
25 Jun 1877
Meeting. Chairman: Joseph Sykes. Others: Messrs. Anderton, Berry, Cockill, Gill, Clay, Hirst & Swires.
Engineers from the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway Company had consented to meet a deputation of the Board at the local railway station respecting the stoppage of a crossing there.
The Board ratified an agreement to undertake the part of the Leeds and Whitehall turnpike within the Board's district.
The Local Government Board announced that after the 29th September, the hamlets of Scholes and Oakenshaw, which are in the township, would form part of Local Board district of Cleckheaton, the Home Office having consented to grant two representatives for each of the two hamlets and Scholes and Cleckheaton to be under separate assessments in regard to the discharge of past debts and liabilities.
9 Jul 1877
Meeting.
The Board resolved to accept the tender of the Liversedge Colliery Company for the supply of 4,000 tons of gas coal.
The Board drew public attention to the fact that all new buildings must be inspected by the Board's surveyor or other officer before being entered upon or occupied.
The deputation who had met the railway engineer from the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway Company reported favourably and anticipated that the company would eventually take steps to compensate the public for the inconvenience caused by their stoppage of the railway crossing at the station and would probably make other desirable improvements.
24 Jul 1877
Conference.
Representatives from the Local Boards of Cleckheaton, North Bierley, Liversedge, Heckmondwike and Gomersal met at Cleckheaton to deliberate the scheme supported by the Local Government Board for the forming of a general Board for the whole of the districts, or parts of the district, which have their natural outfall in the Spen Valley.
It was resolved to appoint a committee representing all the Boards named and to draw up a scheme for the approval of their Boards and subsequently of the Local Government Board. The motion was carried however Liversedge members did not vote. The Committee to meet again in a fortnight.
6 Aug 1877
Meeting.
It was agreed that a full explanation of the defalcations of the rates recently discovered should be made at the next meeting.
A deputation was appointed to wait upon the Central Chapel trustees respecting the straightening of Northgate and other thoroughfares, so as to secure uniformity in the streets about the chapel.
A letter was read from the Education Department and it was resolved to defer the appointment of a School Attendance Committee until the hamlets of Scholes and Oakenshaw become part of Cleckheaton district.
20 Aug 1877
Meeting. Chairman: Mr Sykes. Others: Messrs. Anderton, Berry, Swires, Gill, Clay and Hirst.
The Chairman reported the result of an interview with Mr Carr, solicitor, as to the Board's control over the Green. It would seem the Board had no power to interfere with the right of building upon the Green, such powers having been conferred by Act of Parliament upon the adjoining property owners. The Board was able to the regulate the building line and could object to any ineligible buildings being erected. Mr Clay stated he looked upon the Green as "the lungs of the town" and would exhaust every means before he would allow it to be encroached upon.
The committee appointed by the Cleckheaton Local Board to report upon the late extensive misappropriation of rates, announced that the total deficiency was £249 7s 8d. It was agreed not to publish the report prepared by the committee, it being impossible, according to counsel, to proceed under a criminal indictment. The late Clerk is dead and the collecting of the accounts had been somewhat complicated.
In reference to the complaints of the bad quality of gas supplied by the gasworks, extensive alterations had been undertaken in joining hydraulic mains and this explanation should be given to the public. The gas plant had now been completely renovated and it is hoped that such a mishap would not occur again. Mr Clay denounced the Gas Committee of having a parsimonious and pinching policy.
The medical officer gave his monthly report.
The Local Government Board have stated that the Royal Assent had been given to the Order for the annexation of Scholes and Oakenshaw to come into operation on 29th September.
The General Purpose Committee recommended the purchase of a horse scraping machine for the roads and a deputed to make inquiries.
Several plans were passed and the Board went into committee regarding the proposed trunk drainage scheme.
10 Sep 1877
Meeting. Chairman: Joseph Sykes.
Further discussions took place regarding the serious discrepancies in accounts.
It was proposed and carried that the gas inspector should commence in the middle of December, and go through all the gas and water rents and get them all "taken" before the middle of the following January. Accounts should be made out and collected up to the end of the financial year (25 March) annually.
The Board then went into committee regarding the sewage disposal scheme.
17 Sep 1877
Meeting. Chairman: Joseph Sykes.
The Chairman submitted a minute to the Board for their confirmation, whereby the present gasworks manager is to be dismissed from the service of the Board. Mr Clay declared that from the manner in which the Chairman had interfered in the management of the gasworks they never would be a remunerative concern and added (to the Chairman): You are no more fit for a chairman than the man in the moon. There then followed an exchange between the Chairman and Mr Clay which resulted in Mr Clay accusing the Board being a clique. The Board were quite willing to have a vote of censure passed and suggested that he leave the meeting. Mr Clay refused to retract any statements he had made and that he had no right to be turned away from the meeting as there was no provision for it in the Act. After this, the Board had difficulty in transacting any other business.
The Board confirmed the resolution for the dismissal of the gas manager and a deputation was appointed to select his successor.
Various accounts were approved and passed.
1 Oct 1877
Meeting. Chairman: Mr Sykes.
Deeds of easement relating to the drain passing through property belonging to Mr Cockcroft's executors and Messrs. W Atkinson & Son were signed.
Mr Henry Bates submitted plans for a building to be erected on the site of the Pinfold, but a point of law is not yet decided and the matter was stood over.
The Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway Company have stated the recent stoppage was adopted in the interest of public safety and that they propose to construct a sub-way giving access to both platforms, the plans for which will be duly submitted to the Board.
The gas manager had complained of the quality of coal supplied to the works and some members of the Gas Committee stated it was of inferior quality.
Mr George Nevin, gas manger of Marsden, had been appointed by the Board to their works at a salary of £130 per annum.
An offer of £1600 on loan, on security of the gasworks and £490 on drainage account from Messrs. Carr & Cadman, solicitors, to replace loans falling due, was accepted.
The medical officer reported 5 deaths in August and 19 births. He also certified that the well on the property of Mr B Wigglesworth in Northgate, was unfit for drinking purposes and the Clerk was directed to give the necessary notices.
The Clerk reported that steps were being taken with respect to the election of members for the annexed hamlets of Scholes and Oakenshaw.
22 Oct 1877
Local Board additions.
The following nominations have been received for Scholes and Oakenshaw:
Scholes: Thomas Speight, joiner; Sam Bentley, joiner; R F Crosland, cardmaker; George Whiteley, clerk and William Walker.
Oakenshaw: John Sugden, farmer and Benjamin Wilson, schoolmaster.
29 Oct 1877
Meeting. Chairman: Mr Sykes.
Mr Wilson, newly elected member for Oakenshaw took his seat.
A letter from Mr Woodcock, agent for the Low Moor Company, requested the Board stay any further action regarding the closing of a well at Moorbottom, until he had examined the same.
The tender of Joseph Coates for 200 tons of dross was accepted.
The Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway Company had written to the Board stating they are desirous of constructing a sub-way near to the Cleckheaton station and asked what amount the Local Board were prepared to contribute to do the work. The Board expressed its indignation at the reception of such a letter, declaring it was abominable, disgraceful and an insult. It was unanimously moved that a copy of the correspondence be sent to the Secretary of the Board of Trade pointing out the dangerous state of the crossing and praying that a Government inspector be sent to view the place.
Correspondence relating to the united drainage scheme was referred to a special meeting.
12 Nov 1877
Meeting. Chairman: Mr Sykes
The Board of Trade stated Major-General Hutchinson would visit Cleckheaton to make the inquiry into the railway crossing complained of by the Board.
The Chairman stated that the Board had sustained a serious loss by some malicious person letting of the gas from the holders at the works. Mr Nevin estimated the loss of gas at 100,000ft.
The annexed hamlets of Scholes and Oakenshaw were discussed and so far as possible, each hamlet should have the management of its own roads etc., separate accounts being kept.
10 Dec 1877
Meeting. Chairman: Mr Sykes. Others: Messrs. Anderton, Cockill, Hirst & Clay; Sugden (Oakenshaw); Whiteley & Speight (Scholes).
Following a meeting at the Town Hall between a deputation from from the out-townships and the Waterworks Committee of the Corporation, a resolution was unanimously agreed that 6d per 1000 gallons should be the maximum charge for water to the out-townships. The question has been laid before the committee and an answer promised by next week.
The General Purpose Committee recommended that J S Ramsden be appointed surveyor at 35s per week. Rufus Drake be continued as waterworks manager for Scholes at £15 per year and that the salary of the clerk (J Armitage) be increased by £20 per annum. It was also recommended that the scale of water charges for Scholes be revised and made uniform with that at Cleckheaton.
Plans approved for Messrs. J Law & Sons offices; Mr. Alfred Law's outbuildings, Cleckheaton and Mr S Thornton's plans for 17 houses and two shops at Hartshead Moor.
Mr Anderton hoped that now they have a new surveyor, the causeways would be kept in better condition. Many were in a sad state having been laid down too flat. Causeways at Hartshead Moor were submerged in water and Mr Cockill said Tofts Street was in a fearful state and should be kept decent by the railway company.
Mr Speight resolved to levy a new district rate for Scholes at 1s 10d in the pound and Mr Sugden a rate of 10d in the pound for Oakenshaw.
Scholes intended to lay out of this rate a flagged causeway to the extent of their boundary towards Cleckheaton, undertaking a portion each year.
The medical officer reported nine deaths in the previous month. A favourable return for the present period of the year.
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