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34
for local residents to throw old cans, tins, and general refuse. In
addition to these, there were large numbers of old tyres, cycle
wheels and cisterns. The result of this was that the Moat became
a breeding ground for flies and vermin, and had, for long, been a
source of offence and complaint.
During the first three months of the year, this moat was filled
in with refuse by my Department. Whilst refuse was being actually
discharged into the Moat no single complaint from local residents
was received. I consider that this was due to the fact that I had
sufficient labour available to cover immediately all refuse.
The moat as such now exists no longer, but I understand that
shortly in its place will arise an open air beauty spot in Enfield.
I especially mention this fact as I consider it to be the best
evidence of the fact that if sufficient labour is employed it is
possible to dispose of refuse by controlled tipping without offence
or nuisance at a price which is decidedly economic, apart from the
fact that useless land can thus be re-claimed.
In addition to the above method of refuse disposal, a large
amount of refuse was dumped on the fields of local brickmakers.
This method of refuse disposal continued till the end of March,
1930, when it completely ceased.
My short experience of this method of refuse disposal has
convinced me that it is unsound, unscientific, and should not be
employed. It means that refuse is kept uncovered for a long
period. A brickmaker's dump becomes a breeding ground for
flies and vermin, and until such time as brickmakers will break
away from their hide-bound traditions and find a method of
keeping crude refuse on their fields in such a way as to be
inoffensive, I cannot recommend that refuse be deposited on their
fields.