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31
Smoke Abatement. It is part of the work of a Sanitary Inspector to
observe any nuisance arising from smoke and while there were only
24 recorded instances of observations during 1926 the chimneys in the
Borough can be regarded as being subject to daily observation by the
Inspectors. There were two complaints of smoke nuisances during
the year and cautionary letters were sent to the offenders.
Fouling of Footpaths by Dogs. The Borough Council obtained sanction
for a bye-law to deal with this nuisance during 1925. It has already
been found useful, the condition of footpaths having improved considerably
since the measure came into operation.
Rats and Mice (Destruction) Act. During the year the Council has
provided rat catching varnish to applicants for the destruction of rats
and 300 bait traps were prepared and issued. In conjunction with the
Works Department, investigation was made of a number of old sewers
likely to be infested with rats and a large number of baits were laid.
During the year many persons were advised as to the best means of
dealing with the rat nuisance so far as it affected their respective premises.
The cost to the Council of rat catching varnish during 1926 was
£20 9s. 6d.
Nuisance caused by Pigeons. During the year a number of complaints
were received from residents in the neighbourhood of Chelsea Embankment
and Elm Park Gardens regarding nuisance arising from the large
number of pigeons in the area.
On investigation, it was found that very serious nuisance is being
caused by these birds. In addition to accumulation of excreta in rain
pipes and gullies, pipes are blocked by the nests of the birds, and the
areas and walls of houses concerned are in an insanitary state generally.
Further, the birds pick out portions of mortar and cement from the
structures, tending to cause dampness within the houses. The removal,
cleansing and replacement of rain pipes; the cleansing of areas and
walls; and other repair work involves the owners of such property in
considerable and recurring expense.
At present a Sanitary Authority has no powers to deal with nuisance
caused by pigeons, in fact there are restraining enactments which prevent
steps being taken to reduce the nuisance, e.g., under the Larceny Act,
1861, section 23, there is a penalty of £2 if pigeons are shot or trapped
and this may be claimed by a common informer.
With the object of arranging concerted action, the Medical Officer
of Health for the City of London was communicated with and it was
ascertained that the question has been under consideration by the City
Corporation for some time with a view to obtaining special parliamentary
sanction to deal with the nuisance. Subsequently, the Borough Council
resolved that the London County Council be requested to include a
clause dealing with the matter in their next General Powers Bill.