Medway Council Heritage Services catalogues
  • Title
    Health
  • Reference
    RCA/H
  • Date
    1873-1974
  • Level of description
    sub-fonds
  • Extent
    9 boxes
  • Administrative history / biography
    Under the Public Health Act of 1872, the appointment of a Medical Officer of Health was made compulsory. In 1875, the Corporation took over the duties of the Pavement Commissioners. In the 18th and early 19th century, the Corporation did take some initiatives towards improving the sanitary conditions of the city, including the issue of byelaws regarding the cleaning of the streets, provision of water in the city, fire engines, etc. The Medical Officer of Health dealt with quality of water, drainage, unsanitary dwellings, inspection of ships, prevention of infectious diseases, etc.