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Choked drains. 26 (in 24 cases the drains were cleared by the
owners within the 48 hour period. In the
remaining 2 instances, the work was carried
out by the Council and charged to the
owner.)
Other urgent defects. 1 (this was a leaking water service pipe and
was remedied by the owner).
Drainage Work:
Extensive rebuilding and alteration of existing industrial, commercial
and residential properties has been going on since the war and continues to
take place. This necessitates numerous visits to building sites and discussions
relating to compliance by building contractors with the London
County Council Drainage and W.C. Bye-Laws.
Eighty-two drainage plans were approved by the Council during 1964,
and 2,390 visits were made by the Public Health Inspectors in connection
with the supervision of work in progress. The following table is an indication
of the extent of the work carried out during the year.
Drains laid or amended 391
Soil and vent pipes erected 452
Drains or Soil pipes tested 426
Waste pipes erected 369
Water closets installed 931
Urinals installed 121
Lavatory Basins fixed 1,440
Sinks fixed 656
Bath and showers installed 440
The revised Drainage Bye-laws made by the London County Council
came into force on the 1st May, 1962. They were necessary because of recent
advances in the technique of design and construction, and the use of modern
materials in drainage work. The new Bye-Laws allow the use of the 'single
stack' system, and this is being used extensively in connection with tall
blocks of flats. It calls for greater care in approving installations of this
type.
Common Lodging Houses:
There is only one Common Lodging House known in the Borough,
namely that for men situated at 88 Old Street, E.C.I, which is owned and
maintained by the Salvation Army. The premises were licensed for 275
inmates.
Separate quarters are provided for the Deputy Keeper and staff, but
the common sleeping rooms are large dormitories on the upper floors, the
kitchen, dining room and office being on the ground floor, and the washing
facilities and lockers in the basement. The main sanitary accommodation is
situated in the ground floor yard, but additional toilet facilities are also
provided on each bedroom floor.
25