1904-1919
Gloucestershire Archives D1180/1/8
Minutes from 21 June 1904 to 30 June 1919
of the Committee of Proprietors of the Stroudwater Navigation
Letter from General Manager of Sharpness Docks Co. 7 June. Company to grant through rate on coal to Cirencester, similar to that on stone. Reduction from 1s to 9d, inviting Stroudwater Navigation to reduce toll of 4d to 3d. Whole toll to be paid at Birmingham. Stroudwater Navigation proportion to be remitted by cheque monthly.
Through rate for coal from Staffordshire to Cirencester of 2s 9½d, a reduction of 1d on present rate of 4d on this canal agreed for remainder of year.
Mr Snape reported interview with Mr F A Jones, Engineer of Sharpness Docks Co, on alterations to the Shallow Lock. Changes approved.
Lodgemore culvert, long in precarious condition, had given way. Mr Snape to provide materials for its complete repair and to arrange stoppage of canal when most convenient.
Application by Mr Barnard of Ebley for leave to cross Ebley Bridge with a ¾ inch water pipe agreed. 5s per annum paid in advance.
Mr T F Williams of Eastington to pay 5s per month and lockage for keeping steam launch on canal.
Clerk to give John Potter three months’ notice to quit house near Gas Works Bridge. Irregular with rent. After September may be renewed on monthly footing.
Repayment by County Council of cost of dredging canal near Ship Inn £3 15s.
Gas Co had not availed themselves of convenience of canal for conveyance of new heavy main pipes, laid through Company premises or for other heavy plant. Chairman to write to Secretary of Gas Co. Anxiety to place full facilities at their service.
Proposed alteration by Engineer of G&B Canal at Whitminster Lock and Pound signed by Chairman and confirmed.
Repairs to Lodgemore culvert: stoppage to be on 30 July.
Agreement signed with Mr Barnard of Ebley to pay 5s per annum for water pipe over Ebley Bridge.
John Potter given notice to quit cottage at Downfield.
Letter to Stroud Gas Co. Attention called to facilities canal could offer. More use of canal for bringing retorts, coal to Gas Works.
Bathing places for Cainscross & District: Objection raised by owners of property adjacent to canal. Mr Ball and Mr E P Little to act as sub-committee to arrange with Cainscross Parish Council and others.
Mr Bassett to pay 25s a year for use of land on Stonehouse Wharf for storage of petroleum.
Application of Gloucester Harbour Board for subscription of £6 to cost of lighting the River to stand over for present.
Box containing Company’s seal could not be opened. Loss of 3rd key usually in Mr Mill’s keeping. Lock should be picked and seal affixed by Mr Whittingham to Agreement with National Telephone Co as to wires under Wallbridge Wharf.
Mr Vick had paid only one half of charge made for sheep washing in canal at Stonepits Bridge. Clerk to collect remaining 5s.
Use of bicycles on towing path between Ryeford Bridge and Canal Cottages at Ryeford raised.
Annual inspection of canal from Framilode to Eastington by Mr Stanley Marling and Mr Edward P Little with Mr Snape.
Outfall works at Framilode in good order. One of Company’s cottages let at £6. Steps down to water require slight repair.
Reeds and rushes on banks of Frome require cutting.
Bank near Junction Inn orchard on off side of canal requires piling.
Water of Whitminster pound drawn off to allow Berkeley Canal Co to make Shallow Lock a serviceable lock. Banks of mud on offside below the lock and Junction have fallen in. Shallow Lock had about six feet of mud in it and large accumulation above it as far as weir. Small portion of brickwork of lock and wing requires repairing. Mr Jones, engineer of Berkeley Canal, undertook to do what was necessary. Cost in separate account.
Towing path needs puddling 50 yards above Shallow Lock. Banks of brook require piling by land owner adjoining bridge. Towing path near Stonepits Bridge has given way. Requires taking out for 15 yards and piling.
Sheep washing in canal should be prohibited. Great damage to banks, requiring piling.
Stone, coal and rubbish washed into canal opposite wharf at Bristol Road Bridge.
Two piles required to offside of Cowground Bridge.
Brick out of parapet Eastington Bridge.
Chairman visited the restoration of Shallow Lock by Sharpness Docks Co. Effective head of water, about 8 inches. Adjustment of lock weir remained and raising and repairing of towpath banks, eastwards.
Bill forwarded from Mr Jones for taking out and filling up place of old trunks in bank of river. Clerk to ask for explanation from Manager of Sharpness Docks Co.
Repair of Lodgemore culvert cost £38 3s 1d. Messrs Strachan stopped their works on payment of £10 from Reserve Fund.
Question of right of way for bicycles to cottages and gardens at Ryeford, owned by Sir William Marling. 1864 agreement allows access from public road to their coal pen and to gate of adjoining gardens. Plan of locality to be sought.
Mr Vick paid 5s outstanding for sheep washing, but warned that if sheep damage banks permission may be withdrawn.
Correspondence with Mr Southall of Severn Commission and Mr Butler, manager of Staffordshire & Worcestershire Canal Co as to through rate for coal from the Littleton Colliery at Otherton near Penkridge. Accepted 6d through rate rather than 8d for Littleton coal brought to Stroud and Chalford, and 5d instead of 6d to Stonehouse and Dudbridge.
Injury done to Stonehouse swing bridge by the Reliance which captain strongly denied. Evidence not clear, action suspended for present.
Application by Gloucester Harbour Board for renewal of £6 contribution to stand over.
Account against Severn and Coal Carrying Co. challenged by them as inaccurate. Account amended.
Post Office authorities recently replaced old Telegraph cable, laid on bottom of canal, short distance east of Junction, Saul, with five new cables. Proper agreement and fee for easement to be arranged.
Application from clerk of Wheatenhurst Rural District to renew privilege of filling Saul Ditch at intervals with water from canal for sanitary reasons. Agreed, under control of Company’s staff. Payment in advance one guinea p.a.
Letter from Mr Waddy, secretary and manager of Sharpness Docks Co, suggesting division between companies of the cost of removing old trunks on bank of Frome at the Shallow Lock. Agreed.
Cost of renewing Lodgemore culvert, £46 11s 1d, withdrawn from Reserve Fund.
Chairman mentioned informality appearing to exist in books of Chancery Lane Safe Deposit Co. who hold Company’s Deposit Account in names of four trustees of £500 invested in 3½% Cape Stock. Account should stand in name of the Proprietors of the Stroudwater Navigation. Withdrawals to be signed by Chairman and Clerk.
Reviewed plan of Ryeford property adjoining towing path taken from tithe map. Sir W H Marling satisfied that right of way to his cottages indicated by dotted line. His tenants have no right to use towing path for bicycles or otherwise. Plan recorded in minutes.
Clerk’s letter to Mr Vick, Whitminster as to sheep washing and letter to Mr Southall of Severn Commission as to through tolls on Staffordshire coal read and approved.
Purchase of small quantity of broken stone for repair of roadways over crowns of bridges sanctioned.
Wharfinger at Dudbridge reported habitual use of towing path by Mr Stephens of Ebley, riding his bicycle. Warnings and notices unheeded. Clerk to write to Mr Stephens.
Sir William Marling mentioned work lately carried out by Mr Jones, Engineer of Sharpness Docks Co, at Shallow Lock. Mr Keeling, Consulting Engineer, had seen and approved it. As to adjustment of weirs and raising of banks and towpath in Bristol Road pound, Mr Jones and Mr Snape had decided to suspend final completion of work until the winter’s experiences demonstrated how much was necessary.
General Half Yearly Meeting. After a statement of accounts, a dividend of £1 10s per share was declared.
Clerk’s letter to Mr Stephens of Ebley, on riding his bicycle on towpath. Clerk to write to Mr M J Cartwright who rides his bicycle on towing path.
J R Potter’s offer to pay 10s per month on account of arrears of rent accepted. First instalment to be paid forthwith.
Mr E P Little to caution B Herbert, captain of the Reliance’ reported for riding bicycle on towing path.
Swing bridge at Stonehouse newly painted white.
Mr F A Jones, engineer of Sharpness Docks Co, has had bank at head of Shallow Lock made up. Letters in reference to Shallow Lock read by Chairman from Mr Snape and Mr F A Jones.
£6 contribution to be paid to Harbour Board.
Letter from late tenant of cottage at Lodgemore, J R Potter. Arrears of rent now £3 16s 11d.
Geo Taylor, tenant of Company’s house at Eastington, considerably in arrears of rent. No response to applications. Month’s notice to be given.
Messrs Smith, Rogers & Co of Ebley applied for house for foreman employed at Meadow Mills, Eastington, on lease or shorter tenancy. Chairman to ascertain who would be their tenants and interview person, arrange rent and tenancy.
Mr Ira J Bassett to take further 25 square yards in addition to 25 he already has, for his oil reservoir at Stonehouse Wharf.
Agreement with National Telephone Co produced and signed.
Authorities of Postal Telegraphs to pay 2s 6d to lay cables under bed of Stroudwater Canal near Saul Junction from 29 September.
New key to iron box containing Company’s seal.
Company’s foreman, E Hill, reported Mr F A Jones again riding bike on towpath on 19 December. Mr Whittingham, solicitor, to make remonstrance through Mr Stephen’s firm, Messrs Roberts, Jowlings & Co.
Question raised whether, under any conditions, cycle Licences, with substantial fee, might be granted in connection with important works on canal side for convenience of Principals or Managers who might find towing path a great saving of time.
Letter from Mr Southall, Secretary of Severn Commission, requesting further reduction of tolls. Committee did not entertain this.
Gerard Thomas Andrews Uthwatt claimed shares nos.50,133, will of Anna Maria Uthwatt.
Canal house at Eastington let to Mr Smith, Smith Rogers & Co, at £12 per annum.
Letter from Clerk of Wheatenhurst Rural District Council, declining to carry out proposed agreement to pay for use of Saul Ditch, in interests of village, by filling it with water from canal in view of legal charges.
Agreement of 1863 placed control of valve of that water course in hands of Company. Saul Parish Council to be informed of this.
Need for restoration of surface of Wallbridge Wharf, where Stroud Gas Co and National Telephone Co had laid pipes.
Mr F A Stephens continued to cycle on the towing path. Byelaw needed to enable Company to fully control this. Sub-committee to consider terms.
Terms of notices affixed to Company’s bridges cover all needs, including traffic by motors.
Clerk to enquire as to ability of Dudbridge Iron Works Co to anneal and test chain of Dudbridge crane.
1s per annum, due last June from Stroud District Rural Council for ventilating pipe at Dudbridge, remains unpaid.
Statement of Accounts and Balance Sheet of T&S Canal for year produced.
Many byelaws of Company out of date. Remodelling of whole of byelaws to be done by solicitors.
Repairs of Canal House, Eastington, completed. Mr Smith’s tenancy to commence on 24 February.
Chain of Wallbridge crane not reliable. Clerk to remove it.
Clerk to make another application to Stroud Rural District Council for 1s due for easement at Dudbridge for ventilation of Council’s sewer.
Clerk to make enquiries as to periodical inspection and certification of Company’s weighing machines.
Surveyor of Stroud Urban District Council had received orders to do necessary repairs to Wallbridge Wharf.
Rural District Council paid 1s outstanding.
J K Potter paid 18s 1d of arrear rent but £3 11s 11d still due.
Mr Turier of Cheltenham had written about undertaking survey and repair of Company’s weighing machines.
Amended draft of proposed new byelaws to be completed by Mr Whittingham. Sub-committee to settle final terms.
Repairs to Wallbridge Wharf satisfactorily completed by Stroud Gas Co and National Telephone Co.
Solicitors to apply to J K Potter for arrears of rent.
Mr Turier, Cheltenham, and Messrs Bartlett, Bristol, had submitted terms for periodical inspection of Company’s two weighing machines at a higher cost than current average. Contract postponed. Machines to be examined and tested by Company’s servants with help of James Smith, their blacksmith.
Board of Trade charge for settling new Byelaws accepted.
Mr Evans to represent the Company at a conference in Worcester on a scheme for taking over waterways of Midlands.
Monthly Committee Meetings to be held on Wednesdays 4.15pm instead of Tuesdays 3pm.
Value of stores in hand £116 9s.
General Half Yearly Meeting. Statement of accounts including income, expenditure, balance and reserve fund. Dividend of £1 10s declared.
Committee for next year named.
The passing of new byelaws was approved.
Visit by inspector found weighing machine at Dudbridge correct but at Wallbridge 17lbs out. It has now been refitted and improved.
Mr Evans’ reported on the meeting of Representatives of Canal and allied interests at Worcester on 10 May.
Demand by Government Auditor for details of average of through traffic for year received. Relevant books to be produced for inspection.
Stroud Assessment Committee had raised rateable value of Wallbridge Wharf to £20.
Annual survey of the Canal to take place on two dates in May.
Stroud Rural District Council to pay 2s 6d per annum for right to use towing path for access to gate of new fence, enclosing sewage works.
Mr Vick of Whitminster paid 10s for sheep washing in canal.
Mr Grey Robinson of Parklands, Whitminster proposes making repairs to his bridge over canal. Mr Snape ready to meet builder on spot and advise him.
Draft of proposed new byelaws considered and handed to Solicitors.
Promoters of Canals Bill failed to secure consideration in this session of Parliament.
Invitation from Secretary of Worcester Severn Valley Canals Scheme to Company to name representative on their committee. Chairman or Vice Chairman nominated.
Annual inspection of canal.
General condition thoroughly satisfactory.
Framilode: Masonry at Severn entrance overhauled. Cottage property in order.
Saul Bridge: Valve and culvert of Saul Ditch visited, conditions discussed with some elder inhabitants.
Junction: Advantage of restoration of ‘Shallow Lock’. Head of 8 to 9 inches. Levels at weirs satisfactory.
Stonepits Bridge: Sheep washing again done without permission. Mr Snape to see solicitors.
Bristol Road Wharf: Tenant had renewed wooden sheds. Coal traffic moving.
Eastington Wharf and the Yard: All in good order apart form some minor matters.
Stonehouse Farm: Offside bank in need of a little repair.
Stonehouse Wharf Swing Bridge: Precautions taken to ensure safety of public.
Ryeford Wharf: Nuisance running into canal from dung heap.
Ryeford: Gravel still being carried into canal.
Ebley: Nuisance floating for considerable distance. Dredging being done. Acknowledgement required for easement enjoyed by District Council in obtaining access to entrance gate to sewage works by towing path.
Hilly Orchard. Bridge renewal deferred.
Lodgemore: Repairs to culvert successful.
Clerk had written to Clerk of Stroud Rural District Council, with reference to Council paying acknowledgement re gateway opening on to towing path at Ebley.
Clerk had met Mr Grey-Robinson and Mr T Boulton, the builder, at Parklands Bridge and advised them on repairs.
New byelaws, as amended by Counsel to Board of Trade, were approved, subject to addition, made by him, to no. 27 being omitted.
Wheatenhurst Rural District Council wrote that Eastington Bridge was a danger to public, being narrow and steep. Could Company do anything to improve it? Company would facilitate improvement but not able to bear cost. Suggestion that District Council and County Council jointly carry out work of widening and improving approach to bridge.
Clerk to inform Mr James Stephens of Stonehouse that Company would charge 5s for each trial for testing motor boats on canal.
Clerk had written to Mr Kimmins re gravel washed into canal at Ryeford during storms.
Executors of will of Maria Whitworth Jones, deceased, claimed shares held by her. .
Report of canal development meeting held at Worcester, 27 June, was read.
Mr Grey-Robinson has completed repairs to his bridge over canal at Whitminster.
Acknowledgement by Wheatenhurst RDC of plans for improvement of Eastington Bridge.
Clerk to remind Stroud Rural District Council of matter of gateway to sewage tanks at Ebley, also of 1s per annum due for ventilating shaft at Dudbridge.
Mr W J Acton, tenant of Dudbridge Wharf House, failed to pay rent arrears. Company’s solicitors to recover amount.
No objections to new bye-laws received. Copies were sealed and signed by Chairman and Clerk, to be forwarded to Board of Trade.
No reply from Stroud Rural District Council to letters about access to their sewage tanks.
Mr W J Acton, tenant of Company’s house at Dudbridge, given a month’s notice to quit.
Report of damage to bridge over canal at Ryeford by Mr Brunsdon's traction engine.
Messrs Smith & Son requested further lease for 10 years of Ship Inn, Wallbridge.
List of stores submitted.
General Half Yearly Meeting. Tonnage since 1 April £720 16s 8d. After wages, etc, balance £393 15s 8d. Dividend of £1 7s 6d declared.
Reserve Fund £588 16s 5d.
Mr Acton’s rent not paid so he must leave house at Dudbridge Wharf.
Injury to Ryeford Bridge by Mr Brunsdon’s locomotive: Question as to structure of the arch. so Company will not press claim. Mr Brunsdon to obtain permission of the Company in future.
Messrs Smith & Son’s wish for an extension of lease of Ship Inn discussed. Conclusion of terms of extension to be postponed due to uncertainty around compensation clauses of Licensing Act 1904, Mr Smith to discuss terms with Company’s solicitors.
Mr Brunsdon has stated his intention to risk consequences of not conforming to notice to seek permission to take traction engine over bridges. .
Mr Smith had not called on solicitor in reference to renewal of lease of Ship Inn.
Chain of safety tide gate at Framilode not reliable. and has been replaced.
Stoppage of canal towing paths to take place next February to maintain Company’s rights of way.
Broken stone obtained for repair of metalling over bridges at Bristol Road, Eastington and Stonehouse.
Swing bridge near Shallow Lock, Whitminster, to be renovated
T&S Canal accounts for 1905 to be used to identify tolls due for year ended 30 September.
In October 1870 Commissioners of Roads were given leave to widen Eastington and Dudbridge Bridges. Dudbridge completed but improvement at Eastington in abeyance.
Cheque received from Messrs Smith, Brimscombe Brewery, for rent of Ship Inn, with amount deducted, claimed as due from Company to Compensation Fund, under Licensing Act. Solicitors to look into matter.
Clerk submitted notice to be posted about stoppage of towing paths.
No reply from Stroud Rural District Council as to access to their sewage works. Clerk to allow their servant access during stoppage of path, upon written request being made and granted.
Damages by the gale on 6 January reported .
Clerk reported results of T&S Canal through traffic year ended September 1905,
Report on Stoppage of towing paths presented, with list of canal workers and their stations.
Joseph Hill, reported Mr Blick and Mr Smith using the closed towing path at Stonehouse Swing Bridge, and Mr Palmer junior at Eastington Bridge.
Copy of consent for Joseph Cole to use towing path to attend sewage tanks at Ebley.
Letter received from Albert E Palmer challenging Company’s right of way. Mr Snape to see Mr T Palmer, house owner, and try to come to amicable arrangement.
Deduction by Messrs Smith & Son Ltd from quarter’s rent of Ship Inn in accordance with scale. Mr Whittingham to look into extension of lease.
Costs in connexion with revision of byelaws to be paid.
Stroud Rural District Council to take no action in furtherance of claim by Stonehouse Parish Council to public use of the the towing path.
Challenge by Mr Albert E Palmer to stoppage of towing path by his father's house: incident now ended as father does not claim right of way and Mr Palmer has apologised.
Lease of Ship Inn by Messrs Smith & Son of Brimscombe Brewery to be renewed for 14 years.
Proposal to ask Stroud Rural District Council for acknowledgement of use of towing path to reach new sewage works dropped.
Plan of Stonehouse Court Estate, being offered for sale, includes part of Canal Company’s property. Clerk to see solicitors for vendors.
Minutes of Canal Association read by Chairman.
List of stores, 31 March, value £124 19s 4d.
Mr Smith demurs to 14 year lease renewal for Ship Inn. Mr Whittingham to negotiate with him.
Correction made to plan of Stonehouse Court Estate.
Members of Canals Association desiring to offer evidence before Royal Commission should do so individually.
Coal used by gas companies: Hope that local companies would give preference to coal pits whose production could reach district by water.
Death of Charles Critchley, Company’s tenant at Stonehouse Wharf.
Gloucester Harbour Board requires £6 annually as qualification for a representative. Committee to decide as to future. Contribution for current year agreed.
General Half Yearly Meeting. Income since 1 October 1905 £753 1s 5d. After wages, etc, balance £326 16s 7d. Dividend of £1 7s 6d declared.
Reserve Fund £574 15s 11d.
Committee for next year announced.
No quorum. Read minutes of previous meeting.
Agreement with Messrs Smith & Son for renewal of lease of Ship Inn for 14 years.
Mr Snape to inspect house at Stonehouse Wharf used by late C Critchley with view to repairs due, and to interview Mr Cox regarding proposal to take premises.
Representative of Navigation as Trustee of Gloucester Harbour Board not dependent on any contribution.
Charge on Mr Harding for washing sheep in canal was confirmed.
Arrangements for annual survey of canal in July.
Alfred Henry Ruegg and Walter James Ruegg claimed share no.197 will of Harriet Ruegg.
Mr C H Hooper is unable to attend meetings and resigns as chairman because of eyesight problems..
Lease of Ship Inn completed.
Arrangements for repairs to house on Stonehouse Wharf to be made with executors of Mr C Critchley.
Messrs Dickinson, Prosser & Cox to rent house and premises on Stonehouse Wharf. Company to put in weighbridge.
Solicitor to apply to Mr Harding of Whitminster for charge for washing sheep and to Mr Vick of Quedgeley for annual charge for gate erected on towing path near Stonepit Bridge.
The reports of the canal inspections by Mr P J Evans and Mr E P Little were read and entered in the Minutes,
Liability of late Mr Critchley’s executors for repairs to Wharf House at Stonehouse referred to solicitor.
Lease of Wharf House, Stonehouse to Dickinson, Prosser & Cox sealed. New weighbridge for Stonehouse Wharf delivered.
Money owed by Mr Harding and Mr Vick has been paid.
Clerk to write off balance of Mr Potter’s rent.
Repairs referred to in Inspection Committee reports carried out.
Midland Railway Co to repair wall and gate at Stonehouse Wharf. Permission to Midland Railway Co to make gateway in their fence at Stonehouse Wharf to give access to weighing machine.
Company’s claim for dilapidations at Wharf House, Stonehouse to be paid.
Weighbridge at Stonehouse Wharf fixed. Cost £46 5s paid for out of Reserve Fund. £5 per annum, additional rent to be paid by Messrs Dickinson, Prosser & Cox for weighbridge to be transferred to Reserve Fund until £46 5s replaced.
Clerk to purchase necessary timber for pair of bottom gates at Top Lock at Eastington.
Charge of 9d per 1000 gallons to be made to Stonehouse Brick & Tile Co for water pumped from canal to tank at their works.
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General Half Yearly Meeting. Tonnage since 1 April £711 16s 4d. After wages, etc, balance £401 1s. Dividend of £1 7s 6d declared.
Terminating occupation of house at Dudbridge Wharf by Mr Acton. Notice to leave 27 January, 1907.
Executors of late Charles Critchley had paid £10, dilapidations Stonehouse Wharf house.
Messrs Bartlett’s account for Stonehouse Wharf weighbridge £46.
Ebley swing bridge repaired by Messrs Marling.
Notice to Mr Acton to leave house at Dudbridge Wharf 25 January.
Statement of accounts and balance sheet of Thames & Severn Canal recieved.
Courteous letter from Secretary of Royal Commission on Canals and Waterways.
Mr T Ward, son of late Mr E T Ward of Dudbridge, applied to rent space of 60 sq yards on Stonehouse Wharf for his coal trade. Annual rent of 1s per sq yard. Agreed though unlikely that coal trade would come by canal.
Quantity of slag used on County Council main roads brought from iron works in Forest by rail. Chairman requested to communicate with County Chairman, suggesting canal might have share of traffic.
Company tenant, T White, met with accident repairing towpaths 29 October. At first appeared trifling, then involved going to hospital. Unable to work. Payment at Chairman’s discretion. Accident should be reported to Ocean Insurance Co. Company insured under Employers Liability Act.
Louisa Loveday Stanton and Captain Harold James Clifford Stanton claimed share no.73, will of James Thomas Stanton.
Mr Ward’s proposal to rent 60 sq yards of Stonehouse Wharf not accepted. Company’s tenants there, Messrs Dickinson, Prosser & Cox, objected to weigh his railway borne coal. Mr Ward may get Staffordshire coal by water. Entitled to use of wharf as a trader and service of weighbridge at 1d per ton.
Chairman had written to County Chairman, Sir J E Dorington, re conveyance by water of slag used on roads. Sir John had called attention of surveyor to the matter and to using canals if practicable for road stone.
Correspondence with Ocean Guarantee Corporation re accident to F White, 29 October and conversation with Bristol agent, Mr J McFarlane, 15 January. Intention to advise payment by his Directors of 9 weeks at half wages (8s) Company had given him, say £3 12s.
In all cases of accident, more or less serious, notice to be given by Clerk to insurance company immediately such comes to his knowledge. Mr Snape to express appreciation of liberal view taken of matter.
Notice from Mr H Lambourn, terminating his tenancy of the warehouse and other buildings he rents from Company on Wallbridge Wharf from 25 March. Mr Snape had advertised previous week in Stroud Journal.
Messrs Smith & Son had deducted £2 18s from rent for Christmas quarter of Ship Inn, compensation as per scale from £10, first year of extended lease.
Messrs Dickinson, Prosser & Cox, tenants at Stonehouse Wharf, wished to further rent say 50 sq yards of yard near the railway level at suggested 20s p.a. Mr Snape to arrange it but at rent more like 1s per yard paid by other tenants.
Completion of a small punt for use of tidesman at Framilode Lock.
£3 12s received from Ocean Occidental and Guarantee Corporation for F White’s accident.
Mr Ward, who had a first cargo of Staffordshire coal at Stonehouse Wharf, allowed to exhibit a business sign board there for payment of 1s.
Messrs Dickinson, Prosser & Cox, tenants at Stonehouse Wharf, evaded decision re rent for additional ground they required. Clerk reported they had already used it for unloading their coal trucks. They must pay rent of 1s per sq yard from Christmas or vacate it.
Mr Lambourn, tenant of Wallbridge warehouse had executed a deed of assignment. He had received offer from Albert Ashmead to rent lower part, as a wheelwright’s shop and from Mr S Hopson of Paganhill at £12 for upper floor, as a carpenter’s shop. Committee decision. Mr Ashmead to give £12 per annum for lower warehouse, Company doing alterations he required and allowing him standing room outside for two vehicles. Chairman to negotiate. Rent for upper floor £14, considering glazing of windows required and increase of insurance.
Interview with Mr Alfred Apperley at Dudbridge about replacing with iron railings his hedge which now bounds his field next towing path, lying between Victoria Inn and Mr Whitfield’s iron works. To draw line straighter and throw some six inches into Company’s bound.
Responsibility for repair of western parapet of bridge over canal at Dudbridge work of County Council under arrangement of 27 October 1870 when bridge was widened on that side.
Agent of Cheltenham and District Billposting Company Ltd applied to rent space on Wallbridge Wharf to rent shed. Rent 1s per sq yard p.a. Stamped memorandum or letter to be duly signed.
Application from County Council for annual contribution £150 towards deficit on T&S Canal and for £2 13s 11d due under sect. 46 on through traffic.
Mr Hamilton Mills enquired amount annually realised from Fishing Licences. £20. Thought he could obtain £30 from an Angling Association. Committee entertained idea, provided conditions satisfactory, terms made with persons or associations already holding licences, rules maintained, no fishing or intrusion on Sundays.
Interview with Mr Cox as to space at Stonehouse Wharf. Space required not much more than 20 yards. Annual rent 20s.
Agreement with Solomon Hopson, carpenter, for tenancy of upper floor of Wallbridge warehouse at £14 per annum, paid quarterly. Similar agreement with Mr Albert Francis Ashmead, wheelwright, for tenancy of lower floor. Rent £12. Allowance of £2, each of first two years. £2 contribution to cost of enlarging and rebuilding doorway and 10s 6d to cost of Agreement. Standing room outside for two vehicles.
Mr Dangerfield’s application for house on Dudbridge Wharf withdrawn on account of his serious illness. Mr G Tyler desired to occupy, with the dwelling, offices adjoining, empty for some time. Rent £15 inclusive for house and offices. Fair rent but left to discretion of Chairman.
Letter from Mr Fulton, manager of National Telephone Co, Gloucester. Permission granted to erect further telephone poles on towpath towards Saul. Cost of agreement borne by National Telephone Co.
Death of previous Chairman, Edward Caruthers Little, J P for many years of Stroud, aged 84. ‘A courteous colleague and neighbour of sterling worth.’
Agreements with Mr S Hopson and Mr A F Ashmead for tenancies of Wallbridge Warehouse and Wharf House, Dudbridge by Mr George Tyler, rent of £10 11s. Last month’s rent 17s 7d due from late tenant, Mr W J Acton, irrecoverable and written off.
Letter from District Manager of National Telephone Co, Mr Fulton, re suggested instrument at office at the Junction, in connexion with their extension to Saul. Office property of Sharpness Docks Co. Sir W H Marling promised matter should be mentioned at next week’s Board Meeting. Signing of wayleave deferred.
Payment of £3, contribution to Gloucester Harbour Board.
Circular from Board of Trade as to the Census of Production Act 1906. Deferred till promised forms for returns received.
Each use of Company’s seal to be consecutively numbered and registered.
Sir W H Marling referred to half yearly accounts as not showing fully position of Company by omission of value of stores, etc, and unpaid bills. Clerk submitted list of stores 31 March 1907. Total value £58 12s.
General Half Yearly Meeting. Tonnage since 1 October 1906 £743 11s 8d. After wages, etc, balance £290 0s 7d. Dividend of £1 5s declared.
General Half Yearly Meeting. Tonnage £743 11s 8d. Balance £869 12s 8d. Dividend £1 5s.
Re agreement with National Telephone Co, preferable to drop idea of an instrument at the Junction. Chairman to sign wayleave for posts and crossings.
Frederick Tyler, son of new tenant of house at Dudbridge, expressed his willingness to pay £6 10s rent per annum for the outbuildings there, lease of five years, if Company spent £10 or £12 on the buildings. Option to renew lease at end of 5 years. Committee prepared to let Mr Tyler have buildings, not the stable loft over, at rent offered, if he spends not less than £25 in remodelling for his purpose as an eating house. Left to judgement of Chairman and Clerk.
Stock Balance Sheet to be made by Clerk at close of year, 31 March, in addition to half yearly statement of Receipts and Expenditure, showing assets and liabilities of Company.
Memorandum. No quorum but decision to proceed with matters requiring attention.
Agreement with National Telephone Co as to erection of wires to Saul passed by solicitors of Company to be sealed. Mr Snape and National Telephone Co’s agent, Mr Hodgetts, produced record of each post.
Mr Tyler of Cheltenham, in negotiation for void premises at Dudbridge Wharf, declined terms drawn up by Company’s solicitors.
Workmen’s Insurance, in view of new Act in force July, considered. Mr Stanley Marling placed information of Messrs Marling & Co. at disposal of Company. Chairman and Mr Snape to see insurance secured on best terms by end of month.
Letter from Chas D H Deane to Clerk re his being stopped by one of Company’s servants when riding his bicycle on towpath at Ryeford. Mr Snape to explain to him personally rule forbidding cycles on towpath. No exceptions.
Mr S S Marling to undertake annual canal inspection of lower portion in July with another member of Committee and Mr Snape.
Application by Mr Wood of Stroud to erect a hoarding for Billposting on boundary of Company’s premises at Wallbridge. Rent £5 per annum. Chairman and Mr Snape - erection not desirable.
Communication from Wheatenhurst District Council as to nuisance in Company’s ditch between canal and main road at Newtown, Eastington. In hands of Company’s solicitors.
Memorandum of 19 June adopted as Minutes.
Annual inspection reports received for lower section of canal, Eastington to Framilode, by Messrs E P Little and S S Marling on 5 July, with Clerk. Mr F A Little to survey section Stroud to Ryeford, with Clerk at early date.
Mr Whittingham produced copy of letter, 19 June, his firm had written to Rural District Council of Wheatenhurst in reply to notice to abate nuisance of ditch at Newtown, Eastington, repudiating liability. Offer of reasonable assistance, without prejudice. No reply received.
Clerk had explained to C D H Deane that Company could not allow any infraction of byelaws in his use of towpath with his cycle. Question raised of right of way from Ryeford Cottages. Mr Kimmins, owner, had known ‘for 40 years’. Mr Whittingham’s reply to safeguard Company’s right to towpath, regularly asserted at intervals by stopping it, for many years.
Chairman wished to be relieved of post of Representative and Trustee of Gloucester Harbour Board, if Vice Chairman, Mr H Hamilton Mills, would undertake it.
Edward Palling Little and John Caruthers Little claimed shares nos.16,17,51,56,64,82,83,120,140,146,172, will of Edward Caruthers Little.
Reports from survey of canal:
Walls, bridges, tenements and works generally in good order. Cutting of weeds in canal proceeding.
Posts erected on Company’s property as far as the Walk Bridge noted. Some considered by Mr W Grey Robinson as on his patch.
Stores at Eastington in good order. Iron framework for new bridge at Hilly Orchard excellent. In future repair of gates at Framilode, marks recorded on them should be transferred on independent post, permanently retaining record.
Reports of section Ryeford Bridge to Wallbridge Ryeford Bridge: two coping stones loose, western parapet, County Council responsible. Towpath has hole requiring attention. Alleged right of way along towpath from bridge to footbridge. Impossible to determine existence. Footpath from towpath to road over bridge unnecessary for canal purposes. Right of way from swing footbridge eastward to gardens sold by auction, 1 August 1885. Query ‘right of way’ then reserved. Unwise to dispute a right of footway or for a barrow or for wheeling, not riding, bicycle from bridge to swing bridge.
Double Locks: Early repairs probable. Footpath to towpath, near sewage works, diversion from old line. Water in canal here much clearer than formerly.
Wall of Ebley Bridge eastward needs repair, also metalling.
Warehouse and stable at Dudbridge Wharf needs guttering. Piling of bank.
Gas Work:. Bank requires repair west of retaining wall.
Canal full of water and in good working order.
Section from Ryeford to Eastington surveyed 28 August added to minutes.
Stonehouse Wharf: Office erected by Mr Ward without asking permission. Query rent. Serious crack in ground plate of new weighbridge. Maker’s responsibility? Boundaries next to M R property noted.
Stonehouse Ocean: Boundary between Stroudwater Navigation and Stonehouse Court Farm, land gradually encroaching on water area.
Mud tip getting filled up.
New bottom gates below Newtown just completed. Very satisfactory. Old ones worn out.
Wing walls of Company’s bridges: Suggest deposits of puddle clay for use as required, to evidence right to areas they include. Minor repairs needed.
H H Mills Esq appointed as Trustee and Representative of Company on Gloucester Harbour Board.
Right of way to Ryeford Cottages from Ryeford Bridge: In future periodical stoppages, any foot passengers claiming to be going to cottages by towpath from main road not to be hindered. Cycling precluded.
Survey reports read. Special attention to condition of structure and roadway of Ebley Bridge, deviation path near sewage works.
Mr Snape to see Mr Ward and arrange for some acknowledgment of wooden office, erected by him without permission.
Cracked plate of weighing machine to be replaced on terms of maker’s letter, 20 July.
Request by Cheltenham Bill Posting Co, who have continued tenancy of certain wall spaces under agreement with Rechab Wood at £7 a year, for new agreement, direct with themselves. Messrs Wood & Co, rival firm, proposed to rent wall spaces at £10 per year. At least £12 recognised value.
Policy of Lloyd’s Insurance against Workmen’s Compensation Liability handed to solicitors for examination.
Trespass of telephone poles at Whitminster on Mr Grey Robinson’s property adjusted, by removal of some within Company’s limits. 71 poles from Bond’s Mill now pay in advance. 1s yearly. Two crossings, Roving and Eastington Bridges. Two circuits each 5s and one cable, Wallbridge, 5s. Total £4 16s 0d already paid. Millend Mill, Eastington crossings will add 10s to this.
Letter from Mr Colchester-Weymss asking for exclusive fishing in canal from Bristol Road to the river, for a friend. Rental £12 per year. Fishing club in Gloucester. Friend Mr Terrell responsible for rent, amount up to £15. Club tenants mostly working men. Hope lower amount may be accepted. £15 rent for one year.
Proposed amendment to Public Health Act 1875 will enable local authorities to take water ‘otherwise than by agreement’. Solicitors to examine.
Messrs E J, T Ward & Son paid 5s for wooden office to 29 September 1908.
Personal offer by Mr Sawyer of Cheltenham Billposting Co of £10 per annum, paying rates for wall spaces now rented at £7 or £12, Canal Company paying rates, paying quarterly and quarter’s notice. £12 accepted. Expense to be shared with tenants.
Telephone poles numbers not on Stroudwater Navigation ground and rest, 71, paid for at 1s each annually.
Clerk to write to Mr Colchester-Wemyss for draft agreement on fishing rights.
Correspondence between Company’s solicitors and Mr C H Riseley on r4esponsibility of Lloyd’s Underwriters in connexion with Workmen’s Compensation Insurance Policy.
Chairman to remind Mr S S Marling of promise to repair boundary wall of Messrs Marling & Co’s cottage gardens at Ryeford. Loose stones frequently thrown in canal.
Harold James Clifford Stanton and Francis Henry Guy Stanton claimed share no.156, will of Louisa Loveday Stanton.
General Half Yearly Meeting. Tonnage since 1 April £718 4s 2d. After wages, etc, balance £300 0s 3d. Dividend of £1 2s 6d declared.
Reserve Fund balance £554 15s.
On 28 October iron plate of new weighing machine at Stonehouse Wharf was broken in presence of representative of makers, Messrs Bartlett & Co. Clerk had complained to them of it as originally faulty. Proof accepted. Plate replaced, carriage free. Committee waived some charges against makers. Payment to Mr R J Sugg, iron founder of Brimscombe, for good service and written report.
Mr S S Marling promised attention to wall at the Ryeford Cottages.
Clerk’s report on dangerous escape of gas into Company’s house at Dudbridge, occupied by Mr & Mrs Tyler. Injured main of Gas Company in October. Promptly put right.
Five bridges recently painted, six others repaired.
Ice boat requiring repair. Mr Gardiner of Bourne Dock to examine it.
Letter to Clerk from Henry Terrell Esq KC, Lincoln’s Inn, London, introduced by M W Colchester-Wemyss, respecting fishing in canal from Bristol Road to Framilode. He proposed to guarantee rent on behalf of Gloucester Fishing Club. Exclusion of Sunday fishing did not meet his views. Following unanimously agreed. Established rule and practice of Stroudwater Navigation is to keep canal closed to fishing on Sundays. Sorry to disappoint Mr Terrell but they cannot entertain any proposal to deviate from it. If with this condition Mr Terrell found £15 for year too much, £12 acceptable for six days right.
Messrs Bartlett & Co paid 9s for men’s wages at testing of faulty plate of Stonehouse Wharf weighing machine.
No reply from Mr H Terrell. Matter ended. Clerk to print and issue fishing tickets for 1908.
Agreement with Cheltenham & District Bill Posting Co sealed and signed. Legal costs of £1 1s to be shared equally. £3 10s rent due Christmas and £6 half year’s rent to 24 June 1908, payable in advance, due.
Repairs to ice boat nearly completed.
Flooding of most of coal pits in the Forest, through late heavy storms, seriously interrupted canal coal traffic.
Cheltenham and District Billposting Co paid rent to June 1908, also half a guinea towards materials.
Ice Boat repairs cost £11 8s 5d for boat builder’s time, £4 13s for iron plating and bolts. Total £16 1s 5d. Boat built 1878, cost £70. Used in recent frost, 6,11,13 January, and kept canal open for traffic.
Tonnage deficiency of £60 due principally to flooding of Forest Coal pits. Heavy rain in December.
National Telephone Co wished to fix strainers for their poles in towing path between Lodgemore and Gas Works. Excavations six feet deep. Clerk advised Committee not to consent. Path narrow, occupied underneath by large, 18inch, gas mains. No consent but if found practicable Committee would consider it.
Thames & Severn Canal Co tolls to 30 September to be ascertained.
Notice from Mr Ashmead, 24 December 1907, to quit lower part of Wallbridge Warehouse on 25 March.
Mr S Hopson, builder and contractor, occupier of upper floor of Wallbridge Warehouse to take lower floor also. Offer of tenancy of 5 or 6 years at £25 full eventual rent. He expected to have building material by canal and so become a customer.
Letter from local manager of National Telephone Co. Three stays to poles at Lodgemore placed there without authority.
Serious increased wear of Gas Works Bridge caused by hauling of coal obtained by Gas Co by railway. Rent fixed by Gas Company’s Act 1864. £5 per mile of pipe. Reference to Minutes, 1865, 1881, 1896. Pipe mileage extended from 4 to about 5½ miles. Full rent now £27 10s. £20 per annum fixed for which Clerk would give full receipt. Gas Co now obtaining substantial part of coal supply by rail, from pits not served by water. Contribution to canal tolls much reduced. Wear of bridge by increased traffic greater. Company must require statutory rent of £27 10s.
Mr S Hopson declined tenancy at £25. Business not yet sufficient to justify it. Offer of trial of one year at £20 accepted. £6 for lower floor of Wallbridge Warehouse and £14 for upper floor.
Gas Co to pay £27 10s p.a. and £3 16s 8d for repairs to planking to the Gas Works Bridge.
Complaint from Messrs Apperly Curtis & Co. Letter from Sir Alfred Apperly. Impure water coming at intervals in supply taken at Dudbridge Mills from canal were coming from Painswick Stream into which it flowed from Messrs Townsends Soap works when certain tanks were emptied. Representation direct from Messrs Apperly to Messrs Townsend.
£150 towards deficit on Thames & Severn Canal, Act 1895.
