CA8/242

Bedford. Mander College.

1972-1974

From: 1972 To: 1974

Includes: Letter from County Architect to C R Jackson, Timber Merchants, Bedford Road, Shefford; Howkins & Sons Ltd, 65 Newnham Road, Bedford; Leighton Buzzard Timber Co, 33 Shenley Hill Road: "I have attached a drawing [not here] of the location of a large Walnut Tree in the grounds of Mander College, Cauldwell Street, Bedford. I would be grateful if you would have a look at this tree and give me a quotation on a competitive basis for its removal and also what allowance you would make for the timber. I will require quotations in by Thu 20 Jan 1972. Would you please allow in your quotation for the work to be completed within 14 days of you receiving the Order, should your Firm be successful." 6 Jan 1970 [sic, presumably 1972] Memo from Chief Fire Officer to Deputy Architect: "I refer to our recent inspection of the premises and our subsequent telephone conversation, concering glazing on staircases, and now forward the following observations and recommendations: Etonbury County Secondary School: 1) All plain glazing in the doors and screens at ground floor, first and second floor levels of both staircases to be replaced with 1/4" Georgian wired glass; 2) The doors must be adjusted so that they do not remain in the open position at 90 degrees. Mander College (Engineering Block): 3) The plain glazing in the doors and screens to both staircases at first, second and third floor levels to be replaced with 1/4" Georgian wired glass; 4) All doors separating the staircases at ground, first, second and third floor levels to be adjusted so that they do not remain in the open position on a 90 degree catch. The above are the first two schools which have been noted where the glazing to the staircases is in plain glass, and I will undertake to notify you of others as they arise. It is suggested that 'Smoke Door' notices are fixed on all staircase doors." [Equilateral triangle pointing up with the words 'SMOKE DOOR" on it, over the word 'FIRE', and below that, equilateral triangle pointing down with the words 'KEEP SHUT' on it: with list of potential manufacturers: The Stimur Manufacturing Co Ltd, East Lane, Paisley; Stock Signs Ltd, 1 Trowers Way, Redhill, Surrey; Harrison Jeavons & Co Ltd, King Street, Whetstone, Leicester] 27 Jan 1972 Letter from C B Pritchard, Honorary Secretary, St Mary's Bedford Parochial Church Council, 5 Grove Place, Bedford, to County Architect: "The Parochial Church Council of St Mary's Bedford are agreeable to Mander College using the Church as follows: Term: Suggest to be on a termly basis; Use: The College use three whole days per week during term time; To include: Lighting and Heating as fixed at the moment (Oil fired heating in church); Rent: £10 per week throughout the whole time including holidays (i.e. £520 per year). College to insure so that the Church Authorities have no liability. Mander College to pay any expenses for the agreement. Organ may also be used if required. Decoration of Vestry: The Church Council agree to the College re-decorating the Vestry at College expense subject to Diocesan approval etc., NO SMOKING in Church and Vestry AT ALL TIMES and to be included in any agreement. Agreement to be NULL AND VOID if persons found Smoking in Church or Vestry. I should be pleased to meet your representative to discuss this matter if you wish." 2 Feb 1972 Memo from County Architect to Chief Education Officer: "The terms appear quite reasonable to me with the exception of 'decoration of vestry' but I shall be pleased if you will look at their suggestions and let me have your comments in due course so that I may place this matter before the next Sites and Buildings Sub-Committee." 3 Mar 1972 Letter from County Architect to C B Pritchard, 30 Grove Place: "I must apologise for the delay in replying to your letter dated 2 Feb concerning the proposed terms for the use of St Mary's Church by Mander College but now confirm that both the Chief Education Officer and I are satisfied with the terms with the exception of the clause relating to 'Decoration of Vestry'. I assume you are now agreeable to me obtaining formal Committee approval to acceptance of these terms and I will therefore place this item before the next Education Sites and Buildings Sub-Committee on 26 May. I also understand that you have received a payment on account in the sum of £200 in respect of the use which has been made since last Sep." 19 Apr 1972 Memo from Chief Education Officer to County Architect: "The Governors of Mander College have now agreed to a rent of £520 per annum to cover use by the College (including lighting and heating) of St Mary's Church on three whole days per week during term-time, the College paying any expenses for the agreement." 4 Jul 1972 Letter from County Architect to C B Pritchard: "I now write to let you know that the Governors of Mander College have agreed to a rent of £520 per annum to cover use by the College, and I have today asked the Clerk of the County Council to draw up the necessary agreement. I have also asked the County Treasurer to liaise with the Clerk regarding the balance of the payment of the rental for use since last Sep." 13 Jul 1972 Memo from County Architect to Clerk of the County Council: "I shall be pleased if you will now draw up the necessary agreement in accordance with the following terms [as above]. As the College has had use of the premises since last Sep I would suggest that the agreement be effective from 1 Sep 1971." 13 Jul 1972 Memo from County Architect to County Treasurer: "I shall be glad if you will liaise with the Clerk of the County Council regarding the payment to the St Mary's Bedford Parochial Church Council. I understand that you have already paid £200 on account in respect of the use which has been made since last Sep." 13 Jul 1972 Letter from C B Pritchard to County Architect: "I note that you have asked the Clerk of the County Council to draw up the necessary agreement and I have to state that the Parochial Church Council of St Mary's only agreed to this letting providing it is on an informal basis, i.e. exchange of letters. Perhaps you will inform the Clerk of the County Council of this. There is a balance of £295 due for the period up to the end of Aug and I should be obliged if you would let me have a cheque for this by return of post. With regard to the year ending 31 Aug 1973, the Church Council are agreeable to Mander College using the Church on the following terms: 1) The rent to be £750; 2) The full payment to be made for this by 1 Jan 1973; 3) The Church Council, its officers and servants have no responsibility for any damage, theft, loss etc., to any person or property in connection with Mander College; 4) The words 'NO SMOKING WHATSOEVER will be allowed in the Church or the vestry or church yard' to be embodied in any exchange of letters and this to be brought to the personal attention of all people who enter the Church; 5) Mander College have been putting a rather large notice board outside the Church advertising events taking place in Mander College. This is not to be done in future, we don't mind notices to be put up advertising events taking place in the Church but we feel that it will not be right for a Church to contravene any planning bye-laws by advertising events taking place elsewhere. I look forward to receiving your comments on this in due course." 27 Jul 1972 Memo from Clerk of the County Council to County Architect: "The Education Department require a further extension of the present existing agreement and I have now completed same on the same terms as before. The present agreement expires on 31 Aug 1973 and the extension will run from 1 Sep 1973 until 31 Dec of this year at a rental of £250. Will you please amend your records accordingly." 7 Aug 1973 Letter from Commerical Engineer, Eastern Electricity, Bedford District, Prebend Street, Bedford, to County Architect: "With reference to the previous discussions between Mr Smith and my assistant Mr Webb concerning the supply of electricity at Mander College I have pleasure in submitting the terms under which Eastern Electricity will be prepared to augment the supply of electricity in order to cater for the proposed additional loads. The supply which will be made available from the existing sub-station on the site will be 415/240 Volt, 3 Phase, 50 cycle alternating current of sufficient capacity to cater for your ultimate estimated requirement of 800 kVA. The existing transformer will be replaced and as agreed the layout of the sub-station will be modified so that in addition to providing accommodation for the Board's sub-station plant you will also install your own main switchgear in the sub-station. All Civil Works in connection with the proposed alterations to the sub-station will be carried out by you at no cost to the Board. These works will be as detailed on the enclosed drawing No. 3702/1 Issue B [not here]. Provided the work is carried out as planned you will not be required to contribute towards the capital costs the Board will incur in making the additional capacity available, however there will be a charge of £90 for providing the new medium voltage service. The new medium voltage service which will comprise 7 single core 600 mm2 aluminium PVC insulated and sheathed cables will terminate at and be connected to the incoming side of your main switchfuse or breaker. It will therefore be necessary for you to make sure that the incoming terminals of your breaker will be suitable for terminating an AWCO Solidal cable with 4 bolt lug fixings. Suitable accommodation will also be required for the metering CT's on the outgoing side of your main breaker and the metering equipment which will be housed in a metal cabinet approximately 2'6" square by 9" deep will be fixed on or adjacent to your main switch panel. The energy charges for this supply will continue to be based upon the published Maximum Demand tariff for supplies metered at 650 Volts or less as detailed in the enclosed explanatory leaflet [not here]. I trust that the foregoing will be acceptable to you and as soon as I receive confirmation an application will be made for authorisation of the Capital Expenditure and in due course the work will be entered onto the construction programme. I have also enclosed the necessary application form [not here] which I should be pleased if you will complete and return to this office as soon as possible so that arrangements can also be made for the metering equipment to be installed when your installation is ready for connection to the supply. The existing metering equipment will also be removed and the existing service cable will be handed over and connected to the appropriate switch on your new panel for the sum of £299 Nett Cash Monthly Account, so that you can make use of the cable as a sub-main. The foregoing includes for the installation of 15 metres of 4 core 300 mm2 aluminium PILC SWA Cable, 1 Straight Joint and termination at a suitable cable box complete with gland which is to be supplied and fixed to the appropriate main switch by your electrical contractor. Doubtless you will appreciate that the above quotation will be subject to variation if it is not possible to carry out the modifications to the supply arrangements during normal working hours. I trust that this is satisfactory and it would be appreciated if with your reply you will let me know the date on which your new switchgear is to be installed in the sub-station so that I can arrange for the construction work to be programmed accordingly. In this connection if the official order is to be placed by the main contractor the service charge will be payable in advance. Finally with regard to the augmentation of the supply I have to inform you that the quotation is open for acceptance within 28 days. It is based on the current costs of labour and materials and Eastern Electricity shall be entitled to make reasonable variations in the amount of the charge if such costs increase or decrease before commencement of our work to provide the supply." 24 Feb 1972 Letter from Patrick Shallard, Chief Education Officer, to Principal, Mander College: "I refer to your letter of 11 Oct 1971 [not here] in which you enquire about car-parking on the College Campus. The position is now clearer and I am able to give you fairly accurate details of the immediate and future provision, confirming the information given verbally to you by my colleague Mr Kneen. The Department of Education and Science Building Code has a Scale of Provision for car-parking spaces which must be provided out of the allowance for additional costs when new buildings are erected: your present car-parking facilities have been provided out of previous building contracts. At present the Scale allows 60 spaces for a maximum student capacity (MSC) of 1000, and since the College's present MSC is about 2600, this allows for 156 car spaces for staff, students and visitors. This includes motor cycles at an equivalence of 5 per car space. The Careers Office will require 15 spaces and this gives a total present entitlement of 171 car spaces. If ANY car spaces are provided in or under buildings, the WHOLE entitlement drops to 20 cars per 1000 MSC. Dr Bosley's forecast of the future MSC of the College was 3200, and according to the DES Formula, this gives 192 car spaces which, if the 15 for the Careers Office is added to it, yields a total future entitlement of 207 car spaces. In the immediate future the worst possible case that could occur is, after the landscaping in the north of the College commences, IF the contractor's area between the Careers Office and Workshop II is not available. In this case there will be provision for only 124 cars within the College Campus: West of the 4 Storey Block - 13; North of the 4 Storey Block - 85; East of the 4 Storey Block - 8; North of Workshop I - 3; Cherry Tree Site - 15; Total 124. In fact it is likely that the Contractors will agree to the use of the area between Workshop II and the Careers Office which would release another 82 places (at best) making a total of 206 car places. This may be reduced to about 200 in view of the necessity to site the 6 temporary classrooms on the Campus, when the area released by the probable demolition of J P Motors will not quite compensate for this. After present contracts have been completed, and the Embankment has been landscaped, assuming there is no further encroachment onto car park spaces, it is estimated that 254 car park spaces can be provided (assuming that funds are available for surfacing): West of the 4 Storey Block - 13; North of the 4 Storey Block - 95 (?); East of the 4 Storey Block - 8; North of Workshop I - 3; Cherry Tree Site - 15; Workshop II/Careers Office - 82; West of Sports Hall - 17; South of Anglers Inn - 31; Total 264; less 10 (approximately) for Temporary Huts; Total 254. It is not possible at this stage to reconsider the amount of space to be devoted to landscaping." 24 Feb 1972 Memo from Chief Education Officer to County Architect: "The Principal has been looking into the problem of car parking at the College for next session, especially as the students will leave the temporary parking area to the north of the campus. In order to help the College plan for Sep I should be grateful if you would let me have a site plan showing all the parking areas that will be available to the College from Sep." 23 Jun 1972 Letter from County Architect to G Thomas, Esquire, Principal, Mander College: "I noticed the other day how badly the paving was kept along Cauldwell Street fronting the workshop block. It occurs to me that it might not be realised that the paving beyond the back of pavement line, which is at the front edge of the beds is the responsibility of the College." 28 Mar 1972 Memo from Chief Education Officer to County Architect: "Mander College has agreed to run re-training courses for the Department of Employment and Productivity. A Construction Operatives course will be run by the Building Department and will be largely out of doors. The Principal has asked whether some waste ground behind the pavilion at Biddenham could be used for some of this outdoor work; it will be necessary, amongst other things, to put up a hut and dig trenches. The land would be restored to its original condition at the end of the course. I shall be glad to have your comments on the use of the land for this purpose." 28 Mar 1972 Memo from Chief Education Officer to County Architect: "The Authority included in the Minor Works Building Programme 1972/73 an item for the partition in Room 1/3 with access doors into the first floor corridor and into the adjacent classroom. I should be grateful if you could arrange for this partition to be erected as early as possible in the forthcoming summer holidays. The students finish the term on Fri 30 Jun. The College is anxious to have this alteration ready for the next Academic Session starting in Sep 1972/3 and I should be grateful if you would get in touch with their Registrar to obtain full details of their needs." 11 May 1972 Letter from D G Walsh, for Telephone Manager, Post Office, Telephone House, Harpur Street, to Clerk of the Council: "We are planning to extend the telephone service in your neighbourhood and for this purpose wish to place a six way multi duct in the grounds of Mander College, Cauldwell Street, and an eighteen way multi duct in the ground of your propery in St Mary's Street, Bedford, in accordance with the enclosed plans and schedule... Details of the conditions which apply to private wayleaves are given in the enclosed form A 152." [plans only: 1:500 enlargement of 1:1250 OS] 22 Dec 1971 Memo from Chief Education Officer to County Architect: "Mander College has studied the Telephone Manager's plan regarding the two wayleaves for Post Office telephones required across their grounds. They have no objection to the Post Office carrying out this work as planned, but point out that the area of work marked 'B' [west side of St Mary's Street] and coloured red on the plan may well disturb the site works on the archaeological dig carried out at the College last summer. It is understood, unofficially, that this dig would resume next summer." 25 Jan 1972 Letter from County Architect to Telephone Manager: "I write to say that there is no objection in principle to the ducts proposed on the St Mary's Street site, but you will know that an archaeological dig has been started on the site. This is scheduled to be completed during the coming summer months and any work on laying the ducts shold preferably be carried out after the end of Aug 1972. Regarding the Mander College, Cauldwell Street frontage I am to ask if it is possible to re-route this to avoid disturbing the ornamental shrubbery which has now got established." 23 May 1972 Further letter: "I now write to advise you that damage was caused to the roots of a number of established trees and ornamental shrubs and whilst these are still alive it may wel be that they will suffer the effects of this damage at a later date. If these trees and plants do die I will reluctantly be forced to ask your Department to pay for their replacement." 11 Jul 1972 Letter from George Thomas, Principal, Mander College, to Chief Education Officer: "For a variety of reasons we have decided to change the College's general office from its present situation in the administrative building to rooms M.1, M.2 and M.3 during the forthcoming summer holidays. Room M.3 is used at present mainly as a seminar room. The present general office will be used for this purpose instead as from Sep. I have discussed the question of minor alterations to these areas with Mr Coleman of the County Architect's Department and I understand that, as the number of changes to be made are limited, funds could be found to undertake the following work: 1) The fitting of a communicating door between M.1 and M.2; 2) The fastening of the sliding partition between M.2 and M.3 and the fitting of a communicating door with a glass panel; 3) The resiting of the office counter and the building of a 'stop' end with a hatch for staff to enter M.3; 4) The building of a partition to shut off the present main office from the enquiry area; 5) The bricking up of a doorway in the present office. I should be glad if the County Architect could be asked to undertake this work as early as possible in the summer holiday." 12 May 1972 Further letter: "On Mon 17 Jul, the Post Office Telephones Department will begin removing our telephone switchboard from its present site in the general office on the first floor of the adminstrative building to its new site in room M3 in the main eight-storey building. This is part of a general move of the enquiry office and the associated staff to their new quarters as discussed with and approved by the Organisation and Method staff. Unfortunately there is no 13 amp power socket in room M3 adjacent to the site chosen for the switchboard, and I would therefore ask you to request the County Architect to arrange for a socket to be installed before 17 Jul. If the Architect would give the appropriate instruction to the electrician, the College will arrange to pay the subsequent invoice as it is not expected that the Architect wil be able to find the funds for this small additional job. The electrician should be asked to contact our Chief Clerk, Mr M J Suter, when he calls to undertake the work. Mr Suter will show him exactly where the point is to be installed." 4 Jul 1972 Tender from Abbotts of Harrow Ltd, 23-25 Northolt Road, Harrow, for Part Internal Decorations at the College for £1,818 was successful; tenders were also received from Howley Decorations Ltd, 39-41 Princess Street, Luton; John Corby & Son (Bedford) Ltd, 27 Tavistock Street, Bedford; James Perkins & Son Ltd, 50 Tavistock Street, Bedford; 14 Jun 1972 Tender from Keanes & Sons Ltd, 4 Iverson Road, London NW6, for Demolition of 21-23 St Mary's Street, Bedford, for £3,140 was successful. "Enclosed is a copy of the plan showing detail of the existing front boundary fence which is to be matched when the fencing extension is carried out. With regard to the demolition of 21-23 St Mary's Street (J P Motors) wil you please make an immediate start as this area is required for development on or before 1 Aug 1972 and your co-operation would be greatly appreciated." Tenders also received from Hancock Brothers (Cambridge) Ltd, 99 Mill Lane, Sawston; W F Button & Sons Ltd, 2 York Close, King's Langley, Hertfordshire; 7 Jul 1972 Letter from J Mack, Demolition Section, Keanes & Sons Ltd to Mr Coleman, Department of Architecture: "We are very concerned about the machinery not yet removed from the workshops at Mander College. As a result we must point out that any waiting time incurred in respect of our machines on this site will be chargeable at full hire rates." 17 Aug 1972 Memo from County Architect to County Treasurer: "I have had a memo from the Clerk to the County Council informing me that 9 St Mary's Street, Bedford will shortly become the responsibilty of the County Council, he anticipates that an exchange of Contracts will take place within the next fortnight. Within the purchase there is a tenancy which requires the County Council to insure at all times the building against loss or damage by fire. I should be glad therefore if you would take the necessary steps to insure the building and for your information I estimate the replacement value to be £16,000." 12 Jul 1972 Report from M O Pinney, Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine, 34 Studley Road, Luton, regarding pigs found dead in the fattening unit at Mander College Farm, Silsoe on 12 Jul 1972: "Seven pigs in one pen were affected, a further five in the same pen were removed and seemed to be normal, the bodies were found either in, or close to, the dung passage. No other animals were affected. The pen in question was the last one at the left hand side of the lower end of the house, immediately over the drain outlet to the slurry pit which had been agitated for emptying during the previous day. Post-mortem examination of the dead pigs showed a uniform picture of lung damage with inflammation emphysema and tracheal frothing, together with evidence of splenic contraction. In my opinion the whole is consistent with asphyxiation with 'sewer gas', produced by fermentation in the slurry pit, released by agitation, and flowing up the outlet drain into the house. as this gas mixture is of greater density than air, it would tend to lie in a layer over the lower sections of the floor i.e. the dung passage and adjacent area and thus affect the pigs with their low head carriage. Unfortunate as the loss of stock is, there are two points that must assume greater significance, these are: 1) Danger of asphyxiation of stockmen or other individuals present in the building; 2) The risk of fire and/or explosion should a mixture of inflammable gas and air became ignited; It is recommended therefore that measures designed to prevent a recurrence of conditions such as were present on 12 7 72 be initiated as a matter of some urgency." Letter from Principal, to Chief Education Officer: "I should be glad if you would kindly ask the County Architect to arrange with an appropriate contractor to supply and fit an illuminated sign, to be suspended from the mezzanine floor ceiling in our main teaching building. The wording of the sign is shown on the attached sketch ['ENQUIRIES' (5" lettering) with arrow underneath sloping slightly downwards right to left]. Both the manufacture of the sign and the cost of installation will be met from College estimates." 8 Aug 1972 Letter from Principal, to Alderman W G Matthews, Chairman of the College Governing Body: "You will recall that a contractor is at present demolishing the remaining part of the old bungalow buildings on our campus to make way for part of the new gardens on which work is scheduled to begin in the near future. Part of the bungalow buildings house our incinerator in which we have burnt all manner of rubbish daily. We are now about to lose the incinerator and I have discussed alternative means of the diposal of rubbish with representatives of the County Architect's Department. As far as bulk waste is concerned there should be no problem as we will arrange for a container to be left at the College by a local contractor and this will be taken away and emptied at regular intervals. Unfortunately we do have a considerable hygiene problem in that we must satisfactorily dispose of such things as sanitary towels and paper towels used in our toilets together with certain other refuse such as waste food from the refectory. The County Architect's representatives feel that, to dispose of this type of refuse satisfactorily and hygienically it would be best to install an automatic disposal unit in our main eight storey building. They recommend the installation of a waste disposal unit (Disposamatic : Model 500.55/B) manufactured by the Haigh Engineering Co Ltd of Ross-on-Wye. This model costs £640. There is no sum in our estimates for the current year which we can use to purchase this essential piece of equipment and we would need to seek approval for a supplementary estimate via the Chairmen of the Education Committee and of the Finance Committee. Before we can advance this far, however, it is of course necessary for me to seek your approval of the purchase of the equipment in your capacity as Chairman of the College Governors. I hope that you will feel able to give your recommendation by signing the attached copy of this letter and returning it to me in the enclosed pre-paid envelope. I should perhaps add that the installation of the machine will be carried out by the Architect from money available in the current estimates." 15 Aug 1972 Letter from Principal to Chief Education Officer: "I am pleased to say that Alderman Matthews has today written agreeing to the purchase of this piece of equipment and recommending that approval should be sought for a supplementary estimate via the Chairmen of the Education Committee and the Finance Committee. In view of the urgency of the situation, I should be glad if you would kindly take up this matter with the two Chairmen as soon as possible. I have today received written confirmation from Messrs Haigh Hygiene that a machine would be immediately available to us upon receipt of our order." 17 Aug 1972 Letter from Clerk of the County Council to W G Merry, Esquire, 68 Brooklands Avenue, Leighton Buzzard: "The Chairman of the Education Committee has approved this proposal and has authorised me to seek your approval as Chairman of the Finance Committee to the necessary supplementary estimate of £640 for the purchase of the waste disposal unit. As stated the installation cost can be met from revenue." 29 Aug 1972 Letter from Principal, to Chief Education Officer: "The building contractor working on extensions to our library cut off the power to the lights on the bridge connecting the eight storey building to the administrative building, some teaching staff workrooms, the stairs leading from the first floor to the ground floor of the administrative building and also the foyer outside the new library entrance. As teaching resumes here next Wed it is vitally important that electricity power is restored to these areas otherwise the staff and students will be very seriously inconvenienced. I should be glad if you would kindly make urgent representation to the County Architect to ensure that the power is restored ...Perhaps the Architect could also be asked to assure me that this matter will be attended to as requested." 7 Sep 1972 Memo from Chief Education Officer to County Architect: "The Principal tells me that it is felt that it is essential to have a drinking fountain installed in the Welding or Productionm Engineering Workshops. I should be grateful if you could arrange for a drinking fountain to be provided in that area." 9 Oct 1972 Letter from County Architect to Principal: "The enclosed account for water supplies [not here] was received for your former premises at 21 and 23 St Mary's Street, which you know have been demolished. The supply has been checked and has been found to serve the Art Block and the Students Union Building. The Water Board has been asked to amend their accounts, showing the premises now as Art Block, Mander College. I should be grateful if you would do the same." 12 Oct 1972 Memo from Chief Fire Officer regarding Means of Escape and Fire Precautions in the Art Block: "I refer to the recent site meeting between your Mr Coleman and one of my Fire Prevention Officers, and confirm below the verbal recommendations made which must be carried out before the Means of Escape from the first floor can be considered to be suitable: First Floor: 1) The front staircase should be enclosed at first floor level by a screen and self-closing door, the whole unit constructed to provide a minimum fire resistance of half an hour. If this screen is provided on the lines discussed, it will be necessary to underdraw the timber joisted floor beneath the store room which extends over the stairwell. 2) The lift shaft from ground to first floor must be either totally enclosed at both ground and first floor levels by materials which will provide a minimum fire resistance of half an hour and fitted with fire resisting self-closing doors, or the lift disused and the opening floored in with materials to match the existing. 3) The existing screen and door which forms the enclosure of the rear staircase at this level, should be lined with materials which will provide a minimum fire resistance of half an hour and either sealed to the roof, or covered by a false ceiling constructed to the same fire resistance as the screen. In addition it will be necessary to underdraw the open timber joisted floor at the point where it covers the stairwell. Ground Floor: 4) The front entrance doors must be re-hung to open outwards in line of exit. 5) The existing screen and self-closing door should be replaced by a screen constructed to provide a minimum fire resistance of half an hour with an opening provided to allow easy access from the foot of the staircase to the entrance doors. If, as envisaged, the kilns are removed from their existing position and sited within this enclosure, the screen may be replaced by a brick or breeze block wall to form a kiln room accessible only from the classroom side. 6) The partition and door separating the staircase from the Art Room to the left, must be lined with materials which will provide a minimum fire resistance of half an hour, and the door fitted with a strong self-closing device. 7) The double outward opening doors leading from the rear Art Room to open air should be secured by a panic bolt fastening only and indicated 'FIRE EXIT' in letters 4" high printed in green on a white background, and 'PUSH BAR TO OPEN' in letters 3" high printed immediately above the operating bar. 8) An alternative means of escape by way of an outward opening door must be provided in the existing sliding door which leads from the new television and radio room to open air. This door if not in normal use, must be indicated 'FIRE EXIT' as in 7) above, and secured by a panic bolt fastening only. 9) The opening without door between the Modelling Room and the main entrance hall must be fitted with a self-closing door constructed to provide a minimum fire resistance of half an hour. In all cases where half hour fire resisting doors are specified, the rebate should be a minimum of 1" in depth. Ventilation: When the new kiln room is formed it will be necessary to provide a ventilating duct from the kiln room direct to open air by way of the glazed screen above the double entrance doors. Fire Alarm Systems: An electrical fire alarm system should be installed which may take the form of self contained battery operated units interconnected so that the operation of any one point sounds the alarm throughout the premises. In this instance it is considered that four such units would be necessary sited one on each of the following positions: a) At the head of the front staircase at first floor level b) At the foot of the rear staircase at ground floor level c) In the main entrance hall at ground floor level d) Adjacent to the outward opening door in the sliding door from the new radio and television room." 18 Oct 1972 Schedule of Works included in Maintenance Estimates 1973/74 Items costing over £500: External Decorations £2,750; Internal Decorations £1,575; Demolition of Student Union Building £1,500; Replacement of 4 No. Cycle Shelters £1,600; Work to Art Block in accordance with Fire Officers recommendations £750 Items costing between £500 and £250: NIL Items costing less than £250: Paving Works £100; Structures £1,450; Building day to day £2,100; Heating and Electrical £3,963 Farm: Items costing over £500: Alterations to drainage of cow and pig blocks £1,000; Alterations and repairs to committee room end of Farm House £3,450 Items costing between £500 and £250: External Decorations of six cottages £400 Items costing less than £250: Building day to day £1,250; Heating and Electrical £495 Memo from County Architect to Chief Education Officer: "I am at the moment preparing internal plans for St Marys Square House, together with my interpretation of the brief that you forwarded to me from the College. I hope within a few days to contact the Principal to discuss this with him." 27 Oct 1972 Letter from County Architect to Principals of Mander College, Dunstable College, Bedford College of Education, Bedford College of Physical Education: "I should like to discuss and agree with you a procedure for carrying out building maintenance works at your college and to this end I would like to have a meeting with you and your colleagues from the other Colleges in the County as soon as possible. I suggest that we should all meet at my office when the County Treasurer, County Clerk and Chief Education Officer can be represented so that we may consider all aspects of building maintenance under the arrangements set out in the Articles of Agreement for Governing Bodies of Colleges recently accepted." 26 Oct 1972 Further letter: "I now write to inform you that the most convenient date for all concerned to discuss building maintenance at colleges is Fri 24 Nov at 2.15pm. The meeting wil take place at County Hall in the Architects Department and I look forward to seeing you soon." 6 Nov 1972 Memo from Mr Todd to Mr Lawes, Architects Department: "During the first week in Nov, a report was received from Mander College that water was pouring into the ducts in the main college. On investigation it was found that all pipework in ducts were intact, and that the water was seeping into ducts from external sources. The water board was called in and located the burst pipe approximately 50' from the main building. Messrs Chambers and Lew Keay were called in to start digging in the approximate position located, but it was found that the leak was further away. Mr Giddings was called in, and advised that digging would have to go on until the leak was located. Digging has continued for a week, and the leak has now been found and repaired and reinstatement of ground in operation. The approximate cost of this work could be in the range of £300." 23 Nov 1972 Memo from Chief Education Officer to County Architect: "You may feel it helpful to have my views on the meetings recently held on maintenance of buildings - colleges. 1) I am glad to note your assurance that there is no question of re-negotiating the Articles of Government of the Colleges; 2) There are real advantages in drawing to the attention of the Colleges the complexity of current legislation and regulations concerning the construction and use of premises; 3) There can be no doubt about the responsibilities for action taken under paragraph 11 of the four different sets of articles. If the County Architect places an order he is responsible for the consequences that flow from it. If the Principal of a college or the Governing Body of the Colleges places an order, the Principal or the Governing Body as the case may be, is responsible for the consequences of their action. Among the more obvious points to be considered will be budgetary control: orders must not be placed unless there is sufficient money in the current estimates to cover the cost. The person authorising the work to be done must be satisfied that the work is consistent with the statutory regulations in force at the time, and is not prejudicial to and will not endanger any part of the existing buildings or services. The person placing the order is also responsible for checking that it has been carried out satisfactorily and for passing the bill for payment when he is satisfied. It would be a matter of prudence as well as courtesy to ensure that the County Architect is kept informed both of the orders which are placed and of their value; 4) It will be of the greatest help to the Colleges to have early information on the items which the County Architect feels should be included in recommending to the Governing Body estimates for the maintenance of buildings; 5) I am anxious to ensure paragraph 11 of these regulations is not interpreted as indicating that there should be two separate authorities controlling the maintenance of the premises; 6) I accept that in the immediate future there may be occasional episodes which cause surprise, disquiet or alarm. Where these involve unreasonable expenditure of public money, or conflict with statutory regulations, I should be glad if you will let me know at once, so that appropriate action can be taken on them apart from any remedial measures that may be necessary." 30 Nov 1972 Technical Service Report from A W Waldron, Regional Technical Adviser, Blundell Permoglaze Ltd: "Visit requested by Mr D Coleman, Building Supervisor, Architects Department, Shire Hall, Bedford. Reason for Visit: To inspect hardwood panelling and doors coated with Permoglaze Clear Gloss having bad adhesion and loss of gloss. Observations: The problem was as described. The Permoglaze 60 being easily removed rom the surface and also flaking was taking place. Although there was not an overall loss of gloss, most panels and doors had some areas where the gloss had gone. Conclusion: The cause of breakdown, in our opinion, is that the surface was not washed down prior to painting." 1 Dec 1972 Letter from County Architect to Painting Manager, Abbotts of Harrow, Sherbourne House, Northolt Road: "The contents of the letter are self-explanatory and I would therefore request that you carry out all necessary remedial work to eradicate the problem during the forthcoming Christmas vacation. Should you have any comments to make regarding this report, please contant Mr D Coleman of this office who will arrange a site visit when any problems can be discussed with the Technical Representative of the paint manufacturers." 8 Dec 1972 Letter from J W Scarber, Quantity Surveyor, A G Baxter (Stotfold) Ltd, Building Contractors, 3 Church Road, Stotfold, to Mr Bates, Architects Department: "We would be obliged if you will now let us have the Specification mentioned in your AI 54 in respect of the finishes to the Sports Hall Shower Areas and to the Public Toilet Block. We understand that Mr Bailey of Tretol Ltd has given you the detailed requirements." 14 Dec 1972 Letter from Principal to Chief Education Officer: "The teaching staff are now moving into their new staff workrooms on the first floor of the administrativre building. They began to move last Fri and although we are at present on holiday, several of the staff are working in their new rooms now. There is, unfortunately, one problem connected with room A.15. We noticed that the electric light fittings in this room were not working and Mr Fidgeon and Mr Jessop saw the site foreman, with the permission of the architect responsible for the job, to urge that the fittings should be completed without any further delay. In Mr Fidgeon's presence, the site foreman telephoned the electrical contractor and we expected that, as a result of their conversation, the lights would be made to work the following day. I now have to report that nothing has been done and the staff are due back again on Wed 3 Jan. I am sure you can imagine how concerned I am that these lights should be made to work BEFORE the staff return, as their new accommodation will be useless to them except for the early part of the day and this is a situation we should not have to tolerate. I am writing to you officially in the hope that you may be able to succeed where we have failed. Perhaps you would, therefore, kindly take up this matter with the County Architect. I might add that if there is any particular difficulty in obtaining new fittings, the Registrar is quite prepared to have two of the fittings in his room transferred to room A.15 as a temporary expedient." 21 Dec 1972 Further letter: "The two wall hung gas heaters in the sculpture studio of our art building appear to be malfunctioning. Will you kindly ask the County Architect to arrange for these heaters to be examined by the Gas Board and repaired or replaced as necessary." 9 Jan 1973 Memo from Heating & Electrical Sections to Area Building Surveyor, Mr D Coleman: "Further to the site meeting on Fri 12 Jan 1973 to discuss the alterations to provide new accommodation for the Registrar, the estimated cost to reposition the distribution board, improve lighting, install additional socket outlet and installation of radiator wil be in the region of £250. I would suggest, however, that before this figure is accepted and work proceeds, that the conduits to the distribution board which are buried in the wall be exposed to ensure that it is practical to reposition the lighting main switch and distribution board." 15 Jan 1973 Letter from Miss P B Dempster [?different signature], Principal, Bedford College of Education, to County Architect: "I refer to discussions held with Mr Coleman with special reference to letter of 20 Dec 1972 from the Charter Preservation Co in respect of the presence of Pharaoh's ants at this College. Since my last discussion with Mr Coleman, I have now had reports of sightings of ants in the Science Block, in Block P, in the Tower Block and in the new extension recently completed. It would appear that the unseasonable weather may have re-attracted the ants and I shall be grateful to know if you have sufficient funds to enable a return of Mr Hope to deal with these four sightings. As regards the general proposal that there should be a quarterly maintenance charge of £18.50, I consider this reasonable and should be accepted but I think it is more important, at this stage, to try and control the apparent spread to previously unaffected areas." 24 Jan 1973 Letter from Principal to Chief Education Officer: "I have received a number of complaints from staff and students about the heating of the workshop block and in particular the third and fourth floors of the classroom part of this building. Unfortunately, the radiators installed on the third and fourth floors are of such a design that they can reasily be tampered with and damaged by a certain small minority of irresponsible students. Without going into too much detail, it seems that there is difficulty in obtaining spare parts for the damaged radiators which, although in working order, cannot be adjusted. Indeed apart from this inconvenience, I would say that, as the wiring of the mechanism has been interfered with in some cases, some of the radiators may fairly be regarded as dangerous. The present situation must be regarded as totally unsatisfactory, and I wonder if, since there is no evidence of any repairs having been undertaken to the radiators for some considerable time, arrangements could be made for me to meet an appropriate member of the staff of the County Architect's Department to discuss what work could be put in hand by way of repairs or replacements, both from the current year's estimates and for those now agreed for 1973/74." 7 Feb 1973 Memo from County Architect to Chief Education Officer: "My engineer has visited the College and examined the damage caused to the heaters on the 3rd and 4th Floors. As the Principal was away at the time, the Registrar was contacted and a verbal report given. Practically all the heaters in these rooms have been badly damaged by vandalism i.e. casings taken away, controls ripped out, batteries destroyed and even complete fans removed. To attempt to repair these would cost in the region of £1,200 to £1,500 and of course, similar damage could be caused within a short time. We would suggest, therefore, the following: Take out all damaged heaters and replace with cast iron radiators at an approximate cost of £2,000 and if possible lock all classrooms when not in use or under supervision as the least damaged heaters were in rooms that had been kept locked." 28 Feb 1973 Tender from Patching & Lowe, 215 Goldington Road, Bedford, for complete External Painting of the old Section of the Admin Block including Caretakers Flat and Main Hall, for £689, was successful; Abbott of Harrow Ltd also submitted a tender; 19 Mar 1973 Tender from B G Cox, Meadow Way, Letchworth, for Part Internal Painting, for £1,100, was successful; Patching & Lowe, Abbott of Harrow Ltd, James Perkins & Son Ltd, also submitted tenders; 19 Mar 1973 Letter from Principal to Chief Education Officer: "In our revenue estimates for 1973/74 a sum has been included for the demolition of the former Students' Union building. I am now writing to ask if the County Architect could be urged to make arrangements with a demolition contractor for this particular building to be pulled down and the site levelled as soon as possible after the students complete the summer term 1973. This will be Fri 6 Jul. I would also like to point out that the house, which was vacated by the students last term, is not secured against unauthorised entry and I wondered if the Architect could also be asked to arrange for it to be sealed and secured. As it is, there is some evidence that the building is used at nights and we regard this as most unsatisfactory." 14 Mar 1973 Further letter: "I have been advised by the staff that the electricity mains intake equipment for the art building is located in the former Students' Union building which is due to be demolished at the beginning of the summer holiday. The staff responsible for closed circuit television are most anxious that the intake equipment should be transferred to the art building as soon as possible, however, so that, on a 'self help' basis, they may improve the electrical arrangements and layout in the CCTV studio. I wonder if you would kindly ask the Architect to arrange for this work to be carried out during the forthcoming Spring Bank Holiday week when students will not be working on our premises and the loss of power in the art building will cause no inconvenience. If this could be done, the staff will have an opportunity during the second half of the current term to carry out their rearrangements which will first be discussed with the Architect's electrical section staff." 17 May 1973 Letter from Mr G A Fisher mentions that Bulkhead Lights are due to be supplied and fitted in the cattle yard of Mander College Farm; 26 Mar 1973 Letter from County Architect to Patching & Lowe: "Please will you arrange for External Decorations to commence as soon as possible with a view to the work being completed by 19 May 1973." Also mentions colour scheme for windows, Assembly Hall fascias, boarding panels, connecting bridge, ceilings and walls are all 08B21; 24 Apr 1973 Memo from Senior Building Surveyor to Chief Heating Engineer: "Please will you arrange for the accounts in respect of the electrical work recently carried out in the Art Block and in the Registrars new office to be submitted to Mr Lilburn not later than 15 May 1973, as this work is to be charged to the 1972/73 Estimates." 25 Apr 1973 Memo from County Architect to A Alleway: "When I was at Mander College the other day I noticed a crack in the brickwork on the side of the main entrance to the Admin Block. Please see what can be done." 2 May 1973 Letter from Principal to Chief Education Officer: "In our revenue estimates for building maintenance 1973/74 provision is made for: i) fluorescent lighting in room 2(1); ii) fluorescent lighting in room M.3; iii) modification of power sockets in room 5(3); iv) an electric fan in room 6(3); v) repositioning of switches in room W.33; vi) installation of electric fan in W.21; vii) improvement of site lighting. I should be glad if you would kindly ask the County Architect to arrange for one of his staff to discuss these matters with our Registrar, as soon as possible after he returns from holiday on 12 Jun, with a view to all of the work being carried out before the end of Aug." 25 May 1973 Memo from K W Banks to Mr D J Chalk, DCA2: "On the Mander College project (there is also one case in the Middle School), Barking brassware tap B63 incorporating a self adjusting flow controller and rose spray outlet have been specified on the sanitary schedule. These taps have had to be modified on site as they give insufficient volume of water on the cold down and hot water service. You may care to deal with this in the form of a Technical Memorandum." 12 Jun 1973 Letter from Principal to Chief Education Officer: "I am sorry to report that there is still a leak in the roof of room A.16 in our administrative building. This, you will recall, has been the subject of previous correspondence. As we shall be fitting up this room as a staff workroom towards the end of Aug, I should be glad if the Architect could be urged to investigate the leak with a view to its being sealed as soon as possible." 3 Jul 1973 Memo from County Architect to Chief Education Officer: "Whilst on a routine visit to Mander College to inspect works in progress, it was noted that the kilns from the Art Room have been repositioned into the new Kiln Room. The wiring which I understand was carried out by or on behalf of the college is most unsatisfactory and I must inform you that under no circumstances can I accept responsibility for this wiring until it is corrected to comply with the IEE Wiring Regulations. My assistant has discussed this matter with the Registrar who in turn has consulted the Principal who has requested via the Registrar that the work is carried out by my department. I have received competetive tenders for the revenue estimate works for £73.74 and there is a surplus of some £100 and I would suggest that this be used to rectify this wiring. To enable me to proceed I should be grateful to receive your approval in this matter." 23 Jul 1973 Further memo: "Thank you for your memo of 26 Jul 1973 [not here] which is completely non-committal. I should be most grateful if you would inform me whether you require me to carry out the rectification work to the kilns or take no action in this matter. I would once again reiterate my previous comments regarding possible dangers if the work is not carried out." 1 Aug 1973 Reply: "I shall be grateful if you will ensure that the re-wiring is carried out before the beginning of next term (Mon 17 Sep 1973) otherwise the College will be in serious difficulties with their Pottery Classes." 6 Aug 1973 Memo from County Architect to Mr Alleway: "I met the Principal of Mander College this morning and we discussed several matters relating to the College buildings and their surrounds. The following agreements which effect your immediate work were made and I should be pleased if you would take the necessary action: 1) External Decorations: It was agreed that these should proceed out of holiday time; 2) College Farm Building: The Principal undertook to examine this as a matter of urgency and to let us have a decision in the very near future; 3) Additional Partition: Mr Jessop is now going to re-examine his schedule of improvements with a view to possibly omitting some to pay for the new partition. I agreed that the saving on the internal decoration could contribute towards this cost. Mr Jessop will discuss this with you when you meet him in a day or so; I am looking at the whole of the external works at the College buildings as I would like us to carry out a major tidying up exercise. Monies are available for such work from capital costs and some from maintenance estimates. When I have worked out a rough scheme, I would like to talk to you, and probably Mr Hill, about its implementation." 24 Jul 1973 Tender from R J Constant, 79 Garfield Street, Bedford, for Minor Improvements and Alterations to Electrical Installation, for £917.58, was successful; J A Wady (Electrical Contractors) Ltd, 1a Balsall Street, Bedford, also submitted a tender; [R Clark (Electrical Contractors) Ltd, Bedford Road, Barton-le-Clay submitted a tender which was received too late to be considered]; 26 Jul 1973 Tender from P J Hartel Ltd, 1 Chignell Place, Ealing, London W13, for Complete External Decoration to Multi-Storey Block including the Single Storey Kitchen Buildings, for £3,373, was successful; Abbotts of Harrow Ltd also submitted a tender; [with note: The Colour Scheme for this work is still to be decided]; 6 Aug 1973 Tender from W F Button & Sons Ltd, 2 York Close, Kings Langley, for Demolition of Former Students' Union Block, for £950, was successful; W A Bowler & Sons Ltd, 81 Whitmore Road, Harrow, and Hancock Bros (Cambridge) Ltd, 99 Mill Lane, Sawston, also submitted tenders; 15 Aug 1973 Report from EME [Electro-Mechanical Environmental Service] Industrial Services Ltd, Sycamore House, Woodside Road, Amersham [on invoice form]: Type of Equipment: 4 x Metropolitan boiler/burner units; 12 x circulating pumps; Purpose of Visit: Fan convector units: "All boiler units were dismantled, thoroughly cleaned, adjusted, tested and checked. They were test fired and found to be satisfactory for a further period of operation. With specific regard to the fan convector units it was found that 20 units had been seriously damaged due to what appears to be vandalism, the controls had been torn out and the wiring pulled off of the stats, screws had been removed from the casing and grilles pulled off, the tops of the heater coils had been flattened. Should you wish us to replace these faulty and damaged items we look forward to receiving your further instructions." 16 Aug 1973 Letter from Principal to Chief Education Officer (with Architect's comments): "I am delighted to say that we took over the use of our sports hall for P.E. activities on Wed 26 Sep. Before doing so, however, we had a careful look at the building, as a result of which we would like to point out the following matters which require attention. Most of these are particularly important and I should be glad if you would kindly draw them to the attention of the County Architect: 1) Since our recent discussions with the Architect about our dissatisfaction with the general standard of the laying of the floor, we have noticed that the floor pads have loosened in at least two places, probably due to the seepage of water at the time the roof was leaking in so many places. Obviously, defects in the floor materially affect teaching arrangements and we would be glad of an early opportunity to discuss with the Architect what means there are to re-lay the floor in those places where the pads have loosened. [Contractor has been notified. Have requested Representative to visit Sports Hall to discuss remedial work]; 2) The heating system does not appear to be working satisfactorily and we have received no information or instructions about the operation of this system. Perhaps arrangements could be made for a representative of the Architect's Department or the contractor to discuss this matter with our resident maintenance officer. [Have done so. We are aware of outstanding work. Usual problems of getting work done. Drawings are about to be handed over to Mr ?Tumar explaining heating system]; 3) In the main store and also in the cleaning store (next to the men's changing room) there are masses [not true] of loose electric wires. We are not sure whether there is still some electrical work to be completed or whether the contractor has just failed to fit these wires into their appropriate trunking. Perhaps this matter could be investigated. [We are looking into this]; 4) I understand that in both the ladies' and men's main changing rooms, additional taps are to be fitted into the shower arrangements. [Not true, this is extra work] We would be glad if these taps could be fitted with the utmost speed as present arrangements for controlling the water flow are most unsatisfactory. [Not true. However, water could be saved by introduction of taps. Quotes are being obtained but cost expected to be £40]; 5) The fire alarm near to the fire exit must be moved to a height of at least 6' as it at present constitutes a hazard to people using the hall for five a side soccer. [I agree and will investigate problem] An alternative arrangement would be to sink the alarm flush with the wall, but this might perhaps be less satisfactory as the alarm glass might be accidentally broken upon being struck with a ball; 6) We are disappointed at the standard of workmanship that has been achieved in letting the post sockets into the floor. A number of the sockets are proud of the floor surface and constitute a distinct danger to people using the hall. Three of these sockets are particularly bad and urgent steps should be taken to set them flush with the floor; [Had not been made aware of this problem, I will investigate] 7) There are still two leaks in the roof. [I understood that the roof was watertight. I will investigate] These are at each end of the hall and obviously require urgent attention. One of the leaks is so bad that, in showery conditions, we are catching water in a bucket; 8) We pointed out to the Architect's representatives some time ago that the two extractors in the main area were faulty. Some steps have already been taken to rectify these faults. However, one of the extractors is at present out of commission altogether and I understand that they both require safety guards fitted underneath them. [True] Athough l understand that further action is being taken about this particular deficiency, I thought I should nevertheless record the matter. As a separate issue, I wonder if the Architect would kindly consider making arrangements to fit a water drinking fountain in the sports hall foyer. [No]; 5 Oct 1973 Letter from Principal to Chief Education Officer: "I should be glad if you would kindly ask the County Architect to deal with the following matters: 1) At the time landscaping work was taking place at the entrance to the College, a trench was dug across the entrance leading to the staff car park. This trench, although subsequently filled in, was never properly covered with tarmac and as has been reported verbally to the Architect's representatives on two occasions, is becoming dangerous. I should point out that a member of our staff tripped over this trench last Thu evening during hours of darkness and fell heavily. This is a serious matter in itself and even more so because the lady in question is pregnant. It would be appreciated if this trench could be properly filled in and tarmacked as a matter of urgency; 2) A tennis ball has broken the glass of the clock in the sports hall. The glass needs to be replaced and a wire mesh cover placed over the clock; 3) The teachers using staff workroom A.8 have complained about the lack of an electric clock in their room. It would be appreciated if the Architect could install an electric clock point there as soon as possible." 22 Nov 1973 Letter from Principal to Chief Education Officer: "The annexe to room W47 in the teaching part of the workshop block fronting Cauldwell Street is now used by our Schools Liaison Officer, Mr Goodfellow, as an office. The room also doubles as Mr Goodfellow's staff workspace. Unfortunately, there is at present no form of heating in this room, so I should be glad if you would kindly ask the Architect to arrange for a 13 amp power outlet to be installed as quickly as possible so that we may provide Mr Goodfellow with a convector heater. The account for the installation of the power point should be sent to me and I will arrange for it to be met from College maintenance funds." 29 Nov 1973 Letter from County Architect to Principal; "I have been asked to make a report to the New County Council on car parking at County Hall and I feel this cannot be dissociated from the car parking problems at Mander College site. It would be of assistance to me if you could let me know currently the numbers of staff and numbers of students requiring car parking spaces at Mander College site during the day." 10 Dec 1973 Reminder sent 9 Jan 1974 Letter from Principal to Chief Education Officer: "A few years ago, when there was a motor sales company [?J P Motors] operating from a building adjacent to our former (now demolished) reprographic room, a lavatory was built on the east end of our art building for the use of the motor company's employees. When the motor company vacated the site, the lavatory was taken over by the building contractor who was erecting our sports hall. I am now anxious to make this facility available to the women students and staff who use the art building (especially as there is additionally the provision of hot and cold running water). I should therefore be glad if you would kindly ask the Architect to let our resident maintenance officer, Mr F G Turner, have the key to the lavatory before the end of this term so that we may put it into a fit condition for the staff and students to use as from 3 Jan next." 13 Dec 1973 Letter from Principal to Chief Education Officer: "When the former welding shop (room W1) was converted to classroom use earlier in the year, no additional heating units were built in to give the necessary boost to raise the room temperature consistent with its new use. I should be glad if the County Architect could be asked to investigate this matter with a view to an additional heating unit being built in as soon as possible. As it is, the temperature in this room is quite inadequate and has led to many complaints from both staff and students." 13 Dec 1973 Letter from County Architect to Gunite Construction Co Ltd, Western House, Tilehurst Street, Hitchin: "Further to the meeting of your representative and my Senior Building Surveyor during Nov 1973 regarding proposed repair works to be carried out to the parapets at the top of the building and the walls of buildings on the roof, enclosed are two copies of roof plan [not here] and please will you submit a quotation for carrying out the necessary works, providing all plant, materials and labour. If you wish to re-visit the building, arrangements will be made for my Senior Building Surveyor [?Mr A E Alleway] to meet you." 31 Dec 1973 Letter from AFA-Minerva (EMI) Ltd, Security House, Grosvenor Road, Twickenham, forwarded by Principal to County Architect: "We write with reference to our correspondence with your company in 1973, concerning the requirement to alter the connection arrangements for your Fire Alarm System. Our Company is now preparing to install the new equipment for alarm transmission and monitoring to enable your alarms to be connected through to a 24 hour manned central alarm station. You will have the benefit of continuous supervision of your alarm connection and any fire call received will be relayed to the appropriate Fire Brigage Control Centre. A new and improved method of alarm signalling has been designed to meet the requirements of users giving a) alarm and line fault supervision and indication and b) recognition of subscribers' test signals without need for separate speech communication. The system will give indication on your premises confirming acceptance of fire call and test signals. It is necessary to install the new local signalling transmitter at the same time as the collector equipment is fitted. We will be required to attend your premises for this purpose and at that time we will provide full operating instructions. The charge for installation in your premises is embodied in our connection fee. We require your approval to proceed with the work to the timetable agreed with the Fire Brigade and give below the charges for the work to be carried out: To Installation and Commissioning of the total new facility a connection fee of £85 plus VAT (5% discount for payment with order (i.e. £80.75 plus VAT) or Nett on connection) To revised Annual Rental and Maintenance fee for your communications link including multiplex line costs and Central Station monitoring facility £99 plus VAT (effective from date of connection). N.B. The maintenance charges for your alarm system are not affected by this change. You will be required to have a private wire connection to Bedford Fire Station. In order to ensure a complete understanding of this new facility we attach leaflets showing the principal changes and benefits to users. Also enclosed is a letter which you are asked to complete and post back to us, and a draft of a letter you should send to the General Manager of the Post Office dealing with your private wire authorising the reconnection work. [none of the above are here] We appreciate this is a major change affecting your security and it is important that you keep your insurers advised. Once the changeover has been effected we will, if you wish, send our representative to answer any query you may have." 21 Jan 1974 Letter from County Architect to Principal: "In order to avoid further 'nuisance' fire alarms I would suggest that you might care to have the following work carried out: a) Enclose with a glass fronted door box the three indicator panels, i.e. 1) Main Entrance; 2) Old Workshop Block; 3) Library Block; This should avoid unauthorised tampering. b) Fix more securely all the panelling and studding, and enclose (Box) the internal apparatus (in entrance hall). This would prevent vibration on the apparatus and prevent the ingress of foreign matters to moving parts and contacts." 30 Jan 1974 Memo from Chief Education Officer to County Architect: "The Principal agrees that some action should be taken to avoid further 'nuisance' fire alarms. The action you propose would seem to be appropriate. The Principal therefore authorises this work to be carried out, presumably from 'day to day' funds." 21 Feb 1974 Memo from Chief Fire Officer to Mr Bates, County Architect's Department: "I refer to the recent telephone call between Mr Bates and my Fire Prevention Officer and his subsequent visit to the underground petrol tanks at Mander College to give advice on Fire Precautions to Contractors, and confirm his verbal recommendations: 1) An area surrounding the tanks approximately 20' to be roped off; 2) Signs stating 'PETROL VAPOUR - NO SMOKING' to be erected in suitable positions; 3) No work to continue on the site until the tanks have been made safe and a certificate from a qualified contractor has been received; 4) 2 x 10lb Dry Powder extinguishers to be provided in case of fire; 5) Access through the car park to be maintained so that fire appliances can attend if required." [with note: H M District Inspector of Factories and the appropriate Petroleum Officer have been informed of the above by telephone. However, you are advised to consult further with them to ensure that they acquiesce with the above arrangements] 6 Feb 1974 Letter from J W Thomas, for Head of Engineering (Installation), Post Office, Bedford Telephone Area, to Building Surveyor, County Architect's Department: "On 29 Nov 1973 I met representatives of your Department on site at Mander College when we agreed on Post Office accommodation requirements for the proposed PABX No. 1. The date by which we have agreed that the installation will be brought into service is 26 Jul 1974. In order to achieve this it will be necessary to commence work on site not later than 1 Jul 1974. Before equipment is delivered to site an engineer will visit the premises on or after 10 Jun 1974 to ensure that the accommodation is as agreed. I must point out that equipment cannot be installed if the accommodation is unsuitable, and our commitments to other customers are such that if it becomes necessary to re-programme your work, there will probably be a delay of some three months to the date by which service can be given." 11 Feb 1974 Drawing ET/BF B787: PABX No. 1 Mander College; Original frame size 267 x 390mm; 12 Nov 1973 Letter from Principal to Chief Education Officer: "On a number of occasions in past years we have asked for the electric light switching system in the upper floor of our art building to be modified so that the three separate working areas could be separately lighted. As it is, most of the lights have to be switched on even when only one of the three work areas is in use. There are a number of quite valid reasons why this work has not been included in any minor works or maintenance scheme but, in view of the present emergency situation, I am writing to raise the matter again, this time with a view to saving fuel. In all there are some 18 x 8' tubes lighting the whole of the area in question. I would be glad of an opportunity to discuss this matter with a representative from the County Architect's Department." 7 Feb 1974 Memo from County Secretary to County Architect: "On 30 Apr last you informed me there was no immediate requirement for possession by the Council of 13-15 St Mary's Street, Bedford. I have today been approached by the Lessee, Mr C Loizou, enquiring as to the present position. His Lease of the property expires on 25 Mar 1976, but he would of course be entitled to apply for a further Lease as he has a business tenancy. He is concerned to know the position as he will soon be faced with a choice of continuing his restaurant business at the above premises or attempting to seek alternative premises having obtained compensation from the County Council for vacating his present premises. Would you please let me know the present position in this matter with some idea of when we are likely to require possession." 16 Sep 1974 Reply: "Nothing has happened to change my view since I wrote to you on 30 Apr last. There are no further Capital Projects programmed for Mander College at the present time and as you know the consideration currently being given to the possible amalgamation of the three Colleges in Bedford will have an impact on any future development in this area. I am sorry I cannot be more helpful to you at this time." 20 Sep 1974 Letter from Principal to Chief Education Officer: "During the Christmas holiday vandals ripped out of the brick wall fronting Cauldwell Street two of the stainless steel letters of our 'Mander College' sign. Our maintenance officer subsequently found them, both somewhat damaged, in one of the gardens nearby. At my request, he took them personally to the County Architect's department. A number of people have recently commented to me about these missing letters and the latest person to do so was the Chairman of our Governors, Alderman W G Matthews, at our General Purpose Committee held here last Mon. I wonder if it would be possible for the Architect to let us know when the letters will be refixed." 15 Feb 1974 Memo from Chief Education Officer to County Architect: "Since the matter was raised at the recent General Purposes Committee, it would be helpful if you could let me have a reply before the Governors meet on Mon 4 Mar 1974." 21 Feb 1974 Letter from Douglas L Chibnall, pp Cox & Harper Ltd, Modern Outfitters, to Clerk of the County Council: "We write to you regarding 9 St Mary's Street, Bedford, of which we are your tenants. At the moment one of our main concerns is the back of the premises. Over the past years, due to numerous working activities, the wall has been partly demolished, leaving the back very open, this area is now being used as a rubbish dump. The remaining part of the wall is being used as a shield for many other activities, including the breaking and entering of the premises, which is happening far too regularly. We wonder therefore, if, as already so much of the back is so open, it would be better to take down the rest of the wall. Due to our vulnerable position, our Insurance Company require us to install expensive Burglar Alarms, this would only be worthwhile if we were sure that we should be remaining in business for the rest of our Lease, and having read in the Local Press that the site is required for Mander College we are naturally apprehensive. We should appreciate an opportunity to discuss these and other points." 26 Feb 1974 Memo from Chief Education Officer to County Architect: "Mr Hancock of the Valuation Office, Goldington Road, Bedford, wishes to have the following information about the most recently built accommodation at Mander College, i.e. the new Workshop, Sports Hall, additions to Library and Communal accommodation: Actual cost of construction; Actual cost of site works; Value of the land; Cost of any demolition necessary to make way for the buildings. He also wishes to know the actual cost of the three double mobile classrooms." 6 Mar 1974 Letter from County Architect to Mr Hancock: "Cost of Construction - approximate final assessment £211,000; Cost of Site Works - approximate final assessment £14,000; Demolition - 3 demolition contracts £7,340; The three double mobile classrooms are rented each at £838 per annum. The cost to buy under the new metric standard would be £4,769 from 1 Apr for each of the double units." 20 Mar 1974 Letter from G S Downey, Director, The Gunite Construction Co Ltd, Western House, Hitchin, to Mr A E Alleway, Architect's Department: "Further to our telephone conversation we now forward herewith our Schedule of Standard Rates covering the whole of the Plant, Materials and Labour requirements when carrying out the Specialist Remedial work on the Concrete surfaces of the College buildings. It is not possible to offer a fixed contract price or unit rate for this kind of remedial work as the real condition of the concrete is unknown until tests are made beyond the visual inspection already made. Any work of this nature could not be started until the weather conditions are reasonable and a spell of fine weather can be anticipated. Do not hesitate to contact the writer should you wish to pursue the matter further, or desire more information." 25 Mar 1974 Schedule of Standard Rates: Labour: Superintendent 90p per hour; Operators 85p per hour; Local Unskilled Labour 75p per hour (all plus on cost @ 102 1/2%) Subsistence will be charged nett in addition at rates of £2 per day per man for first 7 days and £1.25 per day thereafter Hire of Plant: Gunite Rig complete with Material Hose, Air/Water Hose, fittings and Pressure Tank £1.25 per hour; Compressed Air Unit - 5/6 Tool Machine £1.50 per hour; 7/8 Tool Machine £1.90 per hour; Above rates are exclusive of transport and attendance but inclusive of fuel and consumable stores; Light Pneumatic Tools (including steels and Hoses) £0.10 per hour Materials: Cement, Sand, Mesh and any other materials required: at cost + 12 1/2% General Items: Transport of Personnel and Plant to and from Site, Consumable Stores, Daily Travelling Expenses and Sundries, if and when required: at cost + 12 1/2% Specialist Sub-Contractors: Scaffolding, Painting etc.; at cost + 10% Engineering Supervision and Technicla Services; per visit plus expenses: £15 Payment Terms: 2 1/2% discount if settled in full within 30 days of date of invoice, otherwise nett Memo from Chief Fire Officer to Chief Education Officer: "During a recent Fire Drill it was noted that the soundproofing of room 6.9 in the main block, which is in use for computer equipment, has cut off the sound of the Fire Alarm. An extension bell should be fitted in the room connected into the main Fire Alarm system; 30 Apr 1974 Memo from Chief Education Officer asking County Architect to arrange the above; 3 May 1974 Letter from Chief Education Officer to Principal: "In reply to your letter about the heating in room W.1, The County Architect states that his Engineer has inspected the room and it would require one additional heater unit plus one radiator to bring the room up to the use that it is now used for, the approximate cost being £200." 20 Feb 1974 Letter from Principal to County Architect: "I should be glad if an appropriate member of your staff could be asked to discuss with our Chief Administrative Officer the possibility of undertaking the building modification referred to in the attached letter of 20 Feb. Ideally, because of the very unpleasant conditions in room W.1 in the cold weather, I hope it will be possible to arrange for the work to be carried out in the forthcoming summer holiday." 6 May 1974 Memo from Chief Fire Officer to County Architect: "I refer to the recent visit by my Fire Prevention Officer to Main Block, Mander College, when it was pointed out that there is an open service duct running the whole height of the building, and providing an open air flow into the false ceilings at all levels. According to Mr Turner the College Maintenance Engineer, the air flow for the convector heaters in the classrooms is taken from the false ceilings. Should the above circumstances be an accurate description, severe risk to the occupants of the building would occur in the event of a fire in the boiler house, or in the service ducts or false ceiling. perhaps you could clarify the situation and let me know of your findings." 10 May 1974 Letter from Eastern Electricity, Caxton Road, Bedford, to County Treasurer: "When the meter at Mander College Pavilion was changed on 7 Feb 1974 for routine recertification, it was discovered that the previous meter which was installed in Oct 1970 had been recorded as having five dials whereas it did, in fact, have six dials. The sixth dial which was a unit dial was, in fact, a pointer dial whereas the previous five dials were cyclometer dials. The effect of this was that by only reading the five cyclometer dials, one tenth of the actual consumption was charged. As a result of this, from Oct 1970 to Feb 1974 an undercharge of £617.45 occurred on this account. I must offer you my sincere apologies for the inconvenience caused by this error and I shall be pleased to call and visit you to further discuss this if you consider it necessary. I attach a schedule indicating how the undercharge has been calculated." 18 Apr 1974 Further letter: "In the absence of a reply, I should like to assume that you do not consider it necessary to discuss the matter and propose to proceed with the preparation and submission of the revised account. I shall, of course, be quite happy to provide any other information, or to discuss the matter at a later date if necessary." 10 May 1974 Letter from H P Kemp, Sales Department, Gent & Co Ltd, Manufacturing Electrical Engineers, Faraday Works, Temple Road, Leicester, to County Architect regarding Fire Station Link at Mander College: "With reference to our letter of 1 May 1974 [not here], we would ask you to note that for the present, the proposals set out in the letter and any subsequent acknowledgement of order which you may have received should be regarded as held in abeyance. The Chief Fire Officer of Bedfordshire Fire Service has informed us that although discussions are to take place on the future use and arrangements for Fire Station Links in Bedford, no firm decision has been made. The decision made by the Fire Authority may require an alternative Signalling System as set out in our letter of 1 May [not here] but there is also some possibility that the existing direct Link arrangement will be allowed to continue in which case the proposals set out in our letter and acknowledgement of order would be cancelled. We would sincerely apologise for having misinformed you concerning the Link arrangement but would point out that our action in forwarding the letter arose due to us having been ourselves given incorrect information. We will write to you again when the Fire Brigade's final decision is known." 22 May 1974 Letter from Principal to Chief Education Officer: "The large gate at the end of the County Council's driveway adjacent to the Anglers' Inn is not kept locked. Indeed, more often than not, the gate is not only unlocked but is left open. As a result, cars are frequently being driven through the newly landscaped area and College grounds across land set aside for the sole use of pedestrians. Quite clearly this practice is contrary to the aesthetic purposes of the landscaping and is also dangerous. I appreciate that the Architect needs vehicular access to the landscaped area for maintenance purposes, but I wonder whether he could be asked to arrange some system whereby the gate is opened only for his own purposes and for most of the time is kept locked. Furthermore, cars are occasionally entering the landscaped area from St Mary's Street at the south end of the Town Bridge, along the path which runs alongside the Council's driveway and which is separated from it by a fence. This is, in fact, the normal pedestrian access to the area from the bridge. There is a bollard at the point of entry, presumably designed to prevent cars from entering the path. Unfortunately, there is so much space on each side of it that only a very wide car can be prevented from getting by. I think that two bollards are needed rather than one. I would be grateful if the Architect could consider this solution." 10 May 1974 Letter from Director of Planning and Development, Bedford District Council, Town Hall, Bedford, to County Architect regarding European Architectural Heritage Year 1975. "Following your letter of 20 May [not here], I have spoken to Mr Ian Chrystall of Messrs C A White who tells me that he is still expecting the County to acquire 11 and 11a St Mary's Street and in the circumstances is leaving them empty and in consequence is unwilling to spend any more money on their maintenance and repair. In the circumstances it seems a pity that some progress cannot be made since there is a willing seller and perhaps your Committee would agree to the County Valuer re-opening negotiations. The advantages to the County are obvious and it would make the tidying up of the west side of St Mary's Street a more simple matter. Perhaps you would let me know whether any positive action is possible." 31 May 1974 Memo from County Architect to County Valuer & Estates Officer: "My recollection is that the Education Committee of the former County Council had agreed to acquire these premises and the matter had been placed in the hands of the District Valuer, but negotiations were held up pending approval of the Department of the Environment to listed buildings consent. I believe that you have my previous file with all the necessary correspondence." 3 Jun 1974 Letter from Principal to Chief Education Officer: "Our Chief Administrative Officer has recently held discussions with a representative from the County Architect's Department (Mr Paul Payne) concerning the installation of some extra electricity power outlets in our offices. I should now be glad if you would kindly ask the Architect to carry out the following work for which there is provision in the current financial year's maintenance estimates: Room A.4 (annexe): Install a double power outlet and a fluorescent light fitting; Room M.1: Convert three existing single power outlets to double outlets and install fluorescent light fittings; Room M.2: Convert three existing single power outlets to double outlets and install in addition two extra double power outlets; Room M.3: Convert three existing single power outlets to double outlets and install in addition two extra double power outlets; Enquiries Area: Install a single power outler adjacent to the new GPO telephone switchboard; As discussed with Mr Payne, the contractor should be asked to consult our Administrative Assistant (Buildings), Mr A H Nevitte, about the exact location of the additional power outlets." 28 Jun 1974 Tender from R E Crawley Ltd, Buckwell End, Wellingborough, for Resurfacing of part of Entrance Drive at Mander College, for £1,620, was successful; L & P Paving Co Ltd, Cosy Nook, Thrapston, also submitted a tender; 15 Jul 1974 Letter from Principal to Chief Education Officer: "I wonder if you would kindly raise the following matters with the County Architect: i) College House: I am becoming increasingly alarmed that this building (formerly known as Nicholl's House) has still not been handed over to us in spite of the fact that the expected completion date of the building contract was 31 Dec 1973. We will be in great difficulties in Sep if the building is not available for us to use for music and other small group classes. Unofficial discussions with the County Architect's staff have revealed that the contractor estimates that it will take approximately two weeks to finish outstanding work, but the Architect seems to have been unable to persuade the builder to return to finish the job. The College staff who will be using the building next session are naturally anxious to know the true position, so perhaps appropriate enquiries could be made; ii) Paving leading to the College's main entrance: Vehicles occasionally drive along the paved area leading to the College's main entrance. As a result, a number of the paving slabs have been badly cracked and some of them have subsided to the extent that they could represent a hazard to pedestrian traffic. I wonder if, therefore, the broken slabs could be renewed and some obstruction placed near the roadway to ensure that vehicles will in future be unable to drive on to the paved area; iii) Paved area between the College library and the craft centre: Here again, I should be glad if some form of obstruction could be placed across the paved area as motor vehicles are occasionally driven between these two buildings. This could be dangerous to staff and students as the vehicles cross the path they take between the craft centre and either the library or the main tower building." 11 Jul 1974 Tender from Lettwell Carpets Ltd, 103 Midland Road, Bedford, for Provide and Lay Floor Tiles, for £1,547.60, was successful; Neofloor Ltd, 9 Midland Road, also submitted a tender; 14 Aug 1974 Letter from Mr A E Alleway, Architect's Department, to Mr D Jones, 35 Thornton Street, Emberton: "I write to remind you that your ladder is still leaning against the Sports Hall. Please remove it as soon as possible." 27 Aug 1974 Schedule of tenders received for External and Part Internal Decorations: Abbots of Harrow, 23-25 Notholt Road, Harrow, £4,196; P J Hartell & Son, 119 Midland Road, Bedford, £2,984; Abid South Ltd, Birds Hill, Letchworth, £2,752.95; C & S Decorators, 44 Arden Walk, Goldington, no tender submitted; James Perkins & Son, 50 Tavistock Street, Bedford, £4,290; E S Stephenson. 24 Lansdowne Road, Bedford, no tender submitted; tender from Abid South was accepted; Tenders due 9am Mon 8 Jul 1974; reported to Sites & Buildings Committee 28 Aug 1974

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