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throughout the year and the District Public Health Inspectors have been called
upon to devote a great deal of time to this important aspect of their work.
The large-scale redevelopment now taking place in the Borough such as the
Carlton Tower Hotel, Wandon Road Flats, and innumerable other large blocks
together with numerous conversions of existing buildings, has necessitated many
lengthy discussions and site meetings with owners, architects and builders.
The Council and its officers, together with the local voluntary
organisations, have continued to show a keen and energetic interest in the
welfare of the aged and infirm. The number of elderly persons who have
problems or who wish to take advantage of the many facilities which are
available is increasing each year. During the year under review 191 new
cases were visited by the Social Worker who also undertook 1,886 re-visits
to persons already on the register.
The closest co-operation is maintained between this Department and the
Old People's Welfare Committee, and I am grateful for the invaluable services
rendered by the various local voluntary organisations, whose untiring efforts
have brought comfort and happiness to many old people and made them realise that
they can participate in the life of the community,.
Steady progress has been maintained regarding the establishment of
Smoke Control Areas within the Borough in accordance with the phased programme
approved by the Council in February, 1959°
The Council's first Smoke Control Order which covers the whole of Church
Ward has been operative since Ist November, i960, and it is most encouraging
to report that no serious problems or difficulties have been encountered
during the first year of operation.
Hans Town Ward is the next Area to be brought under smoke control. The
Order for this Area has been confirmed by the Minister of Housing and Local
Government and will come into operation on Ist November, 1962.
It is with considerable regret that I have to refer to the retirement
of my Chief Clerk, Mr. J.C. Bryant, who asked to be superannuated on Ist
November last, on the grounds of permanent ill-health. Mr. Bryant, who had
completed 32 years service with the Borough Council, was a very capable and
conscientious officer. I always found him a most loyal and dependable
colleague and Chelsea has greatly benefited by his work over the past 32 years.
His early departure into retirement was a personal loss to all his colleagues
in the Department.
In conclusion, may I express my appreciation and thanks to the Chairman
and Members of the Public Health and Baths Committee and other Members of the
Council, for the help and support they gave me throughout the year. I am
also most grateful for the assistance and co-operation I have always received
from the Chief Officers and members of the staffs of other Departments.
Finally I would like to extend my sincere thanks to my Deputy, Dr. D.J.
Sheerboom, and the members of the staff of the Public Health Department for their
loyalty and the efficient manner in which they have carried out their many duties.
I am, Your Worship, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Your obedient Servant,
A.U.
Medical Officer of Health.