View report page

109
As a result of a forecast shortage of solid smokeless fuel, Smoke Control
Orders covering some 40% of the total premises in existing controlled areas were
suspended for part of the year. In the event the winter proved relatively mild and
no difficultues in obtaining fuel were reported. 215 instances of smoke nuisance
were abated after informal action and 10 contraventions in connections with the
sale of fuel were dealt with without the necessity of legal proceedings.
In industrial premises 20 plans of new furnaces were submitted and
accepted, alterations being required in 8 cases, and a similar number of applications
in respect of chimney heights were approved after alteration in 7 cases.
PEST CONTROL
RODENT CONTROL
Surface infestations of rats are steadily diminishing. Treatment of sewers,
prompt sealing of disused drains of demolished premises and thorough investigation
of complaints are all factors contributing to this decline.
On the other hand, complaints of mouse infestation more than compensate
for the diminution of rat complaints. Mice becoming resistant to Warfarin, which
is a basic ingredient of most rodenticides on sale to the public, has led to an increase
in appeals for help from the Council from many people previously themselves
coping with minor infestations.

Treatment in domestic premises is carried out free of charge, but a charge is
made for Commercial premises and owners of the latter are encouraged to employ
private contractors to ease the demand on the Council's staff.
Sewer treatment is carried out in conjunction with the Directorate of Civil
Engineering and Public Services and involves the baiting of some 3,500 manholes.