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It will be noted that 3 new vehicles of the roller-floored type
were purchased during the year. One of these was of the same
capacity as older vehicles, namely, 15 cubic yards; another was
exceptionally large being of 22 cubic yards capacity with a special
compartment for carrying waste paper and/or loaders. The third
vehicle, although of the roller-floored type was of only 8 cubic
yards capacity. This vehicle, after considerable experiment, was
evolved to negotiate narrow, winding roadways at the rear of premises.
It was found that the only vehicle which could negotiate
these special roadways was a three wheel type.
Arrangements exist whereby trade refuse is removed from shopkeepers'
premises on payment of a prearranged charge. The
income from this source was £264 14s. Od. during the year.
The total refuse collected and disposed of amounted to 20,300
tons. The cost was £21,807 or 21s. 5.8d. per ton for collection
and disposal, as against a figure of 17s. 8.9d. for 1937. The cost
per head of the population was 4s. 8.9d. per annum or 1.09d. per
week. The average for each house is 16s.9.9d. per year, or 3.8d.
per week.
DISPOSAL OF REFUSE.
The depositing of refuse in the old Gravel Pit in Carterhatch
Lane was continued until August. The tip in the Gravel Pit when
left was approximately 99 per cent. covered. There is no doubt
that the filling of the old Gravel Pit has removed an eyesore and
added to the amenities of the District.
Refuse is now taken to the new Refuse Disposal Works in
Carterhatch Lane, which are under the supervision of the Council's
Engineer and Surveyor.
SEWER FLUSHING.
This work was carried out by the Department, and all sewers
were regularly examined and flushed until nearly the end of the
year when, unfortunately, owing to the considerable rainfall experienced
it was found inexpedient to carry out any further flushing,
as the sewers were becoming surcharged.
The clearing and repair of sewers, and the regular examination
of all main drains has been carried out as in previous years.
CESSPOOLS.
The dual-purpose cesspool-gulley emptying machine purchased
in 1934 has been in constant use during the year, primarily for the
emptying of cesspools. When not so employed the machine has
been of use to assist in the emptying of street gullies for which
purpose the Surveyor's Department have now a special machine
of their own.