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8
SECTION A.
VITAL STATISTICS AND SOCIAL CONDITIONS
OF THE AREA.
Orpington was made an Urban District of 20,842 acres in
1934, and since that date has developed rapidly from a 33,000
population to a 62,420 population in 1950. The northern part of
the district is urban in character ; the southern largely rural.
Light industries have developed in the St. Mary Cray Ward.
There are now some 179 factories of various characters within
the district. Its proximity to London and the ready means of
transport by rail and bus make Orpingon one of the dormitory
towns of London. The " spread over " of London housing into
Orpington, and the extension of housing by the Local Authority
must, unfortunately, encroach on the beauty of the country-side
of North West Kent.
During the year extensive alterations and decorations were
completed to the Civic Hall and it was officially opened on the
9th December, 1950, so adding greatly to the amenities of the
Civic Services.