View report page

43
Dimensions, 4' 3" high X 3' diameter. Circular type, or
alternatively with flat sides 2' 6" wide to suit narrow dust chambers,
and are adapted to stand on concrete sills 24½" to 25" apart X 8½" to
9" high.
These containers are now provided on caster wheels, this being
a great advantage in many ways besides increasing their mobility.
There are 122 in the district some of which are emptied daily.
Prevention of Noise.
A new type of bin is now on the market fitted with rubber lid
and rubber base. This type of bin is an attempt to reduce noise
and it is hoped these will find favour with the public.
Plastic bins are also coming to the fore, unfortunately they are
easily damaged, particularly by hot ashes.
Labour.
The shortage of labour and the continual movement of
personnel has made it extremely difficult to maintain a weekly service;
a heavy sickness toll has added to the difficulties of the
department.
In the past few years students have filled the gaps at certain
periods, particularly during the Christmas and Easier holidays.
Paper Bag System.
This system which has many advantages over the metal sanitary
bin system, is receiving substantial and continual publicity in the
press, and whilst every one is interested in the hygienic storage and
collection of refuse, it might be as well to mention one big factor
to be taken into consideration and that is the extra cost the system
would entail. The bags purchased in bulk cost between fourpence
and fivepence each, and this must be added to the present cost of
service. There is also the capital cost of the holders. There would
however, be some saving in other directions but as yet there is no
evidence to show its introduction would not entail an additional
charge on the rates. Over 100 local authorities are now operating
the system in parts of their districts, and a number of improvements
have been made to the holders.
Refuse Disposal.
The disposal of all house and trade refuse is carried on at St.
Paul's Cray Hill Park, where low-lying land is being reclaimed and
when completed will be handed over as an agricultural unit. It is
hoped to continue tipping at this site for a further two or three years
and, to enable the department to achieve this object, further