Hainault's First Farmer cont.

Timber removed from the site was taken to build ships for the British Navy. Efforts were made to lease the land for grazing. Advertisements were published indicating that part of the allotment would be open for the construction of villa residences. There was no interest from builders. A shortage of drinking water and the absence of a railway station in the area may have contributed to this lack of interest. Contracts were established for the manufacturing and installation of drainage pipes at designated prices. Work on the drains began in April 1855. Tradesmen also agreed to purchase stack-wood and other products that would otherwise be unsellable.

An offer was made by Messrs. John and Alexander Alison, to lease 1,235 acres for a term of 31 years, from 10th October 1854, at the following rents:

For the first year of the term -  -   £309.

For the second year of the term -  £618.

For the residue of the term  -  £1,421 8s.

This was based on the agreement that they would pay interest on all amounts spent by the Crown for drainage and for the construction of farm buildings at rates of 5 and 6 percent, respectively. A large farmhouse, a foreman’s residence, cottages for four labourers, stabling for 28 horses, a wheelwright's shop, a cart and cattle shed with a large granary overhead, large barns, and an engine and boiler house were constructed.

In the first year of tenancy, the Alisons cultivated 250 acres. Additionally, 700 acres were cleared by the Crown and partially ploughed by the lessees. The remaining land was cleared in the second year. An area of 1,165 acres had now been cultivated, of which over 600 acres had been planted with potatoes.