The opening of the Central Station in 1889 positioned Amsterdam firmly on the rail map. The years after 1870 also saw a band of new workers' neighbourhoods arise, beyond the Buitensingelgracht. Quality of building, life and surroundings were low priorities. The Housing Act of 1901 was designed to end the appalling living conditions endured by many people. The authorities now had powers to confiscate and demolish slum dwellings. The new Act also set out minimum building standards. New grant arrangements led to creation of many housing cooperatives that still nowadays are important players in the provision of public sector housing in Amsterdam. |