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problem of open sites and derelict buildings. Westminster is no exception. Such open sites
and, in many instances, the basement areas of derelict premises, all too frequently become dumping
grounds for an assorted miscellany of refuse which, apart from at times constituting a statutory
nuisance, proves attractive to vermin and becomes the breeding-ground of flies. In the case
of those open areas which were once static water tanks, flooding frequently occurs with subsequent
stagnation of the water. Derelict buildings are rarely adequately secured and this has
sometimes given rise to additional nuisance from casual habitation of the premises by tramps,
inebriates and beatniks.
Power to deal adequately with derelict buildings is extremely limited unless a statutory nuisance
actually arises, but a substantial degree of co-operation has been achieved with certain owners
in initially cleansing the premises and subsequently providing close-boarded surrounds to deter
unauthorised entry and indiscriminate dumping. It has been a long-standing practice for bombed
sites to be cleared by the Cleansing Department on the authority of the Medical Officer of Health
as and when accumulations of putrescible matter give rise to nuisance. Surveillance of such sites
is regularly undertaken and remedial action taken when nuisance arises. It will be realised,
however, that sites may be littered with old furniture and rubbish.
In the Pimlico area, some time ago, the various estates owning bombed sites were invited to
submit plans for infilling them with residential development. Planning applications have been
made in respect of the majority of these sites and most of the proposals have already been approved
—in one or two instances they are currently under development.
It seems likely that the position will to a great extent be resolved in the future, bearing in mind
the implications of the Civic Amenities Act, 1967, Section 18 of which requires local authorities
within twelve months of the coming into force of the Act, i.e. 27th July, 1968, to provide, unless
with good reason they cannot do so, places where refuse other than business refuse may be
deposited by residents of the district, free of charge at all reasonable times. The local authority
for this purpose in London is the Greater London Council.
Public Health Inspectors—Night and Weekend, etc. Duties
The rotas of duty, organised to provide as complete coverage as is possible with available staff,
which were detailed in last year's Annual Report, have been maintained throughout 1967.
Student Public Health Inspectors—Practical Training
At the beginning of 1967 there were twelve student public health inspectors under training in
the Health Department. During the year, two fourth-year students qualified by passing the
Diploma Examination in June, and both were subsequently appointed as public health inspectors
by the City Council. The establishment was increased and four additional students were appointed
in September. Thus at the end of December there were fourteen student public health inspectors
under training in the Department, more than in any other of the twelve Inner London Health
Authorities.
The four-year course of lectures and demonstrations undertaken by student public health
inspectors to satisfy the requirements of the examining body in relation to theoretical instruction
involves the release of the students to attend approved technical colleges for two days each week.
For the remaining three days each week during the college term, and for every day during vacations,
the student is required to undergo full-time approved practical training in the Health Department
of the local authority by whom he is engaged as a paid pupil.
In Westminster, this practical training is carefully organised to accord with the several stages—
first, second, third or fourth year—of the theoretical instruction being received, and is planned
to ensure that during each year not less than two months is spent working in each of the principal
environmental sectors—housing, food and food premises, atmospheric pollution, district inspection,
drainage and new developments, etc. Thus, every public health inspector is involved in some
measure in giving practical instruction to students and as, in addition, they have to direct and
instruct the twenty-four technical assistants assigned to them, it may be recognised that the
time, effort and consideration which they must devote to work in this field is not inconsiderable.
As a corollaiy to their work in the various departments of the environmental sector the students
also get experience of the conditions and problems associated with the distinctive areas of the
City. In order, however, that they may have opportunities for association and mutual aid in the
practical field, a monthly forum is arranged at which they are encouraged to discuss common
problems and to which they invite a speaker—usually a senior public health inspector—to talk
informally and answer questions upon subjects of their choice.