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introduction of any new noise source at night usually results in complaint even if
the noise level is only just audible. Many visits may have to be made to establish
the existence of a statutory nuisance. Householders in properties adjacent to one
another often have very different opinions about a noise and these differences
sometimes lead to friction between neighbours.
Much noise could be avoided if a little thought were given to other people and
if relatively simple precautions were taken, but sometimes it can present very
complex problems and remedial measures may be expensive.
Although recent surveys have shown that traffic noise is now a major noise
problem in urban areas, many people seem to accept it. It is frequently much
greater than the noise from industrial premises but so long as industrial noise can
be heard between lulls in the traffic noise, complaints continue.
Following the receipt of complaints, 884 visits were made to investigate allegations
of noise nuisance. In a few instances there was no evidence of nuisance, and
the majority were remedied by ready co-operation, although not always as promptly
as desired. On no occasion was it necessary to take legal proceedings.
DISINFESTATION
Powers to deal with filthy or verminous premises or articles and verminous
persons are contained in Sections 83 to 86 of the Public Health Act, 1936, as
amended by Sections 35 to 37 of the Public Health Act, 1961.
The Council provides a treatment centre for the cleansing and treatment of
verminous and scabetic persons and during the year, 184 persons were treated, the
majority of whom were suffering from scabies.
The incidence of vermin in dwelling houses has been reduced very considerably
by the use of modern insecticides, and the formerly common pests such as bed bugs
and fleas are now comparatively rare. However, on a few occasions verminous
bedding and clothing were treated at the disinfecting station.
PEST CONTROL
The Prevention of Damage by Pests Act, 1949, requires an occupier to notify
the local authority if his premises are infested by rats or mice, but it is the responsibility
of the occupier himself to take steps to destroy them and it is the council's
duty to see that he does this. Nevertheless, best results are usually achieved where
the local authority undertakes rodent control as a public health service. In Enfield,
householders and occupiers of business premises can have the assistance of trained
council staff, which ensures that suitable material and reliable techniques are used,
and that all the properties involved in any infestation are dealt with. No charge
is made for this service to householders.
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