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71
(c) closing orders cancelled (premises demolished) Nil
(d) consents given to use of closed rooms for
non-sleeping purposes 6 ( 7 rooms)
(e) undertakings accepted from owners to render part
of building fit for habitation 1 ( 2 rooms)
(f) part of building rendered fit and undertaking
cancelled Nil
Assessment of Housing Priorities on Medical Grounds
During the year, 236 applications for rehousing on medical grounds were examined,
and recommendations for the award of additional points were made to the Chief Housing
Officer. In each case, the precise medical conditions and resultant disability were
determined (frequently necessitating communication with the family doctor or with the
hospital attended). The premises were inspected in detail to ascertain the extent and nature
of the existing accommodation; the adequacy of day and sleeping space, sanitary and
structural defects; and the existence of inconveniences, such as stairs, which might be
prejudical to the patient.
On this information, and that supplied by the Chief Housing Officer, an assessment
of points to be awarded on medical grounds was made in 224 cases.
FLOODING FROM THE RIVER THAMES
During the year, notice was drawn to the risk of flooding from the River Thames
under certain weather conditions. The Borough Engineer and Surveyor has been appointed
Flood Controller for the borough and, working under his general control, schemes have been
drawn up whereby Public Health Inspectors will assist in suitable instances should flooding
occur in the future.
An offer to assist with temporary surgery facilities was made to a number of general
medical practitioners whose premises appeared to be at risk.
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
Public Health Acts, 1936 and 1961
Seventy-five summonses were authorised during the year but only sixty-nine were
subsequently issued as the nuisances were abated in six cases. In twenty cases, Abatement
Orders were secured, fines totalling £190 and costs amounting to £106 were obtained. In
twenty-nine cases the summonses were withdrawn and in one case the summons was
dismissed, the nuisances having been abated prior to the Court hearings. In sixteen cases the
summonses were adjourned sine die, as the necessary works were being carried out by the
defendants. In two cases Orders were made for the nuisances to be remedied within 21 days
and 2 months respectively, and in the final case the Court made an Order for the Council to
execute the necessary work.
Housing Acts, 1957 to 1969
Overcrowding
One summons was issued for permitting a dwelling to be overcrowded, but this was
subsequently withdrawn as the owner had taken all necessary steps to abate the
overcrowding.
Directions to Prevent or Reduce Overcrowding
Eight summonses were issued for permitting the number of households occupying
premises to increase above the limits of Directions given by the Council. In one case a
conviction was obtained, a fine of £50 was imposed and costs amounting to £5 were