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93
It is unnecessary for me to remind you that this matter is one which
has specially engaged the attention of the late Vestry on more than one
occasion.
As Medical Officer of Health, I am, however, of opinion that this
question of Sewer Ventilation in Hampstead, from a public health point
of view, has not been solved, and I further maintain that the system at
present in use is a source of annoyance, nuisance, and possible danger to
health.
Before, however, attempting to substantiate these opinions, it appears
to me necessary that as some mis-apprehension exists as to the exact
meaning of the remarks on this subject in my Annual Report for 1902,
I should make my interpretation of them clear.
The present system I describe as "most unsatisfactory" and
" improper."
In my judgment, a system which has been the subject of so much
investigation by the Sanitary Authority and which is still a source of
general complaint, may, without exaggeration be so described.
In the same Report, I express the opinion that "where practicable,
the present system should be abolished."
It does not appear to me to admit of argument that, where a system
of sewer ventilation liable to affect the public health is in the opinion of
your Medical Officer of Health "most unsatisfactory "and "improper,"
he should recommend that it be " abolished."
No one, however, practically acquainted with sewer ventilation
would suggest that the abolition of the system at present employed in
Hampstead, should or could be carried out satisfactorily in other than a
gradual manner, or that regard should not be paid to special districts of
the Borough.
The facts are, that during 1902 complaints to the number of 58 were
received by me of offensive odours from sewer ventilators, and I cannot
but think that similar complaints, though perhaps less in number, may
have reached the Borough Surveyor.