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46
Fourthly—As to nuisance generally; the basin is probably more liable to
accumulate bottom refuse on account of the stationing of barges at the wharves,
the loading and discharge of cargo, &c., and the easy access to the water-way at
the wharves, and therefore should demand the greatest attention of the Company.
I nm under the impression that the dredging is more pursued in the Canal itself,
which is fairly clear of mud, &c., more so than the basin. There is a sluice valve
at the southern end of the basin communicating with the sewers. When the
Canal Company opened this valve, which formerly they have done when there
was sufficient water, and at other times they gave notice to the Works Department
to warn the flushers in the sewers, but the Chief Surveyor informs me that
the last occasion is a considerable time back.
Recommendations.—The basin and the arm leading to it forming a dead
end, the water must be more or less stagnant and become offensive on very hot
days, although I have been unable to verify such a condition, but in order to
avoid offensiveness arising, I have suggested—
Firstly—The basin should be dredged at regular intervals,
Secondly—That an overflow should be constructed at the southern end,
covered by a grating, which would allow of a slow but constant change
of surface water and removal of surface scum, and also attract and
arrest the larger jetsam, which could be collected from the grating at
regular and frequent intervals.
Thirdly—That if a further step were necessary, the sluice valve should be
opened when there is abundance of water, and not remain so long closed
as at present.
On Friday, 22nd May, 1891, I traversed that portion of the Regent's Canal
in St. Pancras, from Cumberland Basin to Battle Bridge, accompanied by
Inspector Fulton.
About half-way up the Cumberland Arm, some jetsam, &c., was floating on
the surface. Nothing further was particularly observable until reaching Kentish
Town Lock.
From Kentish Town Lock to Pancras Lock the water had been run off,
exposing the bed of the Canal. The following points were observed in traversing
this portion of the Canal.
A large accumulation of mud to the eastward of the Kentish Town Road
Bridge, on both sides of the Canal—hundreds of tons—but especially opposite the
Kentish Town Wharf, smell offensive.
An accumulation of mud lining both sides of the Canal, between Camden
Street and Camden Road Bridges, but especially at and opposite Bayham Wharf.
An accumulation of mud between Great College Street and King's Road
Bridges, mainly on the south side, at Bangor Wharf.
An accumulation of mud on both sides of the Canal, above and below the
bridge by Bass' Stores, especially inside the columns under the projecting
building; the mud is a solid black mud, from 2 to 4 feet deep, except just in the
middle of the Canal.