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-51–
It was found that the estimates submitted by the owners were
usually reasonable and in instances where the specifications and
estimates were considered excessive, there were discussions and
agreement with the owners. Nearly all the required work was completed
by 5th November, the outstanding items being mainly gas
ignition work.
Householders in the Area expressed approval of the scheme and
satisfaction with the work carried out.
Co-operation in providing information and assistance to the
residents was readily given by the London Electricity Board, South
Eastern Gas Board, Coal Utilisation Council and Solid Smokeless
Fuels Federation. The mobile exhibition of the Solid Smokeless fuels
Federation toured the areas demonstrating the correct way to burn
smokeless fuels efficiently and special attention was given to the
burning of Sebrite. A Display stand with appropriate literature
explaining the purpose of Smoke Control Areas was on show in the
entrance to the Municipal Offices.
As a result of certain trolleymen offering coal to residents
in No. 1 Smoke Control Area, representations were made to two
firms who employed the men and they readily agreed to co-operate
to stop the practice and issued the appropriate instructions to
their trolleymen.
Complaints of difficulty in obtaining supplies of premium fuels
were received at the beginning of the year with the coming of the
severe weather. Investigations were made at the Coal Depots where
the merchants confirmed that there was a temporary shortage and
explained their difficulties in meeting peak demands. Fortunately
the shortage was not of long duration and soon the delivery time
to householders was considerably reduced.
Eleven notifications were received of proposals to install
new furnaces, and plans and specifications submitted for approval
in respect of one other installation are the subject of negotiations.
The Council has in use a daily volumetric smoke and sulphur
dioxide apparatus, two standard deposit gauges, and three lead peroxide
instruments. The Central Electricity Generating Board has a
lead peroxide instrument on the jetty of the Bankside Power station.
During the year 12 complaints were received of smoke and grit
emission; 193 special observations and inspections were made, and
10 Intimation Notices were issued. It is pleasing to record that the
managements took remedial action on all occasions.