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There remains in Poplar only one large block of privately owned buildings
comprising some 450 separate dwellings which, by reason of their age and
general lack of modern amenities, is the cause of much unrest on the part of
the tenants. Unfortunately, the buildings are structurally sound and it is
not considered that the accumulated disrepair would justify them being included
under Slum Clearance procedure, and their acquisition by Compulsory
Purchase Order would be prohibitively expensive. In view of the size of the
problem and in order to clarify the point the London County Council have been
asked to consider the possibility of the inclusion of this property in future
Slum Clearance.
Caravans
As a result of the continuous activity by the Department, the caravan
trespassers have been almost completely eliminated, it is unfortunate that
Poplar is situated on the north side of the Blackwall Tunnel, which is the
route used by most of the caravans in their annual trek to Kent. They are
discouraged from passing through the Tunnel in the day-time which means that
they seek stopping points in the Borough, and often stay for long periods.
The extent of the improvement can be seen from photographs elsewhere in
the Report. One shows an area where, at one time, there were as many as 400
vehicles closely packed without any amenities. As a result of activity of the
Department and the co-operation of the London County Council this area is now,
as " Bartlett Park", a valuable amenity of the Borough.
Old People's Welfare
The work of the Welfare Section continues to expand as the number of
people seeking help and advice increases steadily.
The popularity of the Home Bathing Service has led to another Attendant
being engaged on this work.
During the year the Mayor arranged fora holiday for Poplar Old Polk
and the Woman Welfare Officer was granted leave of absence to help them.
Smoke Abatement
14 Orders have now been confirmed in the Borough and work is in progress
on Order No,15 which covers the remaining portion of the Isle of Dogs which,
together with Orders already in force will cover more than half the Borough.
It is anticipated that the whole of the Borough will be "Smoke Controlled" by
1965.
Smoke Nuisances from industry have been almost abolished.
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