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THE HEALTH OF BARKING

You did agree during the year to the setting up of three observation stations
for the measurement of atmospheric pollution. These stations are to be sited at
Barking Park, Greatfields Park and Parsloes Park. Arrangements have been
made for the supply of the necessary apparatus and for the chemical examination
of the deposits. When the results of such examinations are known more
authoritative statements can be made as to the condition of Barking air.
Barking has long been known as a town where offensive trades of varied character
have been established but owing to the absence of town planning control little could
be effected to prevent any increase. In addition to the scheduled offensive trades
mentioned in the Public Health Act, 1936, we have a number of factory premises
where chemical processes registerable under the Alkali Works Act are carried out
and a small number of other premises controlled by special byelaws.
With industries of this type it is inevitable that there must be at one time or
another complaints of offensive emissions and the discharge of grit and gritty particles
from chimneys. This has been true of the year 1947 and the Department has
spent a significant number of man-hours in making observations and visits to
offending processes.
In regard to a factory area in a built up part of the district there are no less than
nine chimneys in continuous use for steam generation. These chimneys can emit
black smoke for an aggregate period of 18 minutes in every 30 without contravening
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