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were made to the secondary treatment units by the introduction
throughout of 'Simplex High Intensity Cones'. The programme of
extensions to the Works, in order to cater for the sewage of
Romford and Hornchurch, has made good progress, and it is expected
that the constructional work on the first of the civil engineering
contracts will commence within the next few months.
PUBLIC SWIMMING BATHS
There are two open air swimming baths in the borough. The water is taken
from the mains of the South Essex Waterworks Company. The method of treatment
is continuous filtration and sterilisation; the period of turnover is four
hours. Bacteriological and chemical examinations of samples have indicated
satisfactory conditions.
A portable swimming pool installed at a local junior school has continued
to function satisfactorily.
HOUSING
Slum Clearance
During the year two houses were closed as being unfit for human habitation.
Rent Act, 1957
Seven applications were received from tenants during the year compared
with thirteen in the previous year. In no case did the Council refuse to issue
a Certificate of Disrepair. Undertakings to do the work were given by the
landlords in respect of two properties. Five Certificates of Disrepair were
issued and four cancelled on the completion of the repairs.
As in past years advice was given to tenants and they were able to
purchase the necessary forms at the Civic Centre.
Improvement and Conversion Grants
Two types of grant are available; the "discretionary" grant for the more
extensive forms of improvement or conversion towards the cost of which a grant
up to £400 is available, and the "standard" grant where little or no structural
alterations are necessary and a grant up to £155 is available towards the cost
of the five standard amenities (fixed bath in a bathroom, wash-hand basin, hot
water supply, water closet if reasonably practicable in the dwelling and satisfactory
facilities for storing food). The "standard" grant conditions are
designed to provide as simple a procedure as possible.
Applicants are always encouraged to make preliminary enquiries before any
expense is incurred. Every effort is made to deal with the application as
speedily as possible. During the year many enquiries were received; in
several cases the improvements desired were not eligible for grant. Five
applications for "standard" grants and three for "discretionary" grants were
approved. All applications were from owner/occupiers. One application was
refused because of the anticipated short life of the property.
Houses in Multiple Occupation
The service of statutory notices was authorised in respect of two houses.
In one house the additional facilities were provided; in the other, the house
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