The Stratford Evening Post WITH WHICH IS INCORPORATED THE EGMONT SETTLER FRIDAY, OCTOBER 23, 1914. THE BROADWAY FIRE.

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXXX, Issue 57, 23 October 1914, Page 4

The Stratford Evening Post WITH WHICH IS INCORPORATED THE EGMONT SETTLER FRIDAY, OCTOBER 23, 1914. THE BROADWAY FIRE.

The fire which occurred in Stratford lust night, and by which the Borough Council Chambers, Public Library, and the oifices and shops contained in the Municipal Buildings were destroyed, is especially unfortunate apart from the actual monetary loss. The construction of the building was certainly very far from fire-proof, but it was erected in earlier days when probably less thought was given to such matters. But we are becoming more and more alive to the undoubted" fact that cost must not play too great a part in the matter of the erection of public buildings, and that the cheapest method is not always the most economical. At such a time as the present, when business is more or less affected by the war, and when- all our special efforts and extra cash are required to supplement the Patriotic and Poor Relief Funds, it is regrettable that the town should be compelled to incur a considerable outlay in the erection of new Municipal Buildings, because, certainly, such will have to be faced. Whatever is done, however,, we hope will not be undertaken until after the most careful thought and consideration .as to the best style of building, not only as regards material —which undoubtedly must be as nearly fireproof as possible—but also as regards capacity and with an eye to the advancement the town has made and is making. The question of including a Town Hall in any new building scheme also comes within range of consideration, but of course the matter to be at first settled is that of ways and means. The town has undoubtedly suffered a serious loss, and in the disorganisation which to some extent must arise in Borough matters, we trust burgesses will give every aid and consideration they possibly can to the Town Clerk (Mr P. Skoglund), and to the municipal officers generally.