London's Pulse: Medical Officer of Health reports 1848-1972

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Erith 1960

[Report of the Medical Officer of Health for Erith]

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45
The Schedule to the Act lists all the rivers of England
and Wales, except the River Thames where the Port of
London Authority already has powers.
For the first time since 1956, no complaints have been
received regarding objectionable odours arising from the
River Thames, and a review of the results of inspections
at various river-side sites throughout the year would indicate
that there has been a considerable improvement so far as
turbidity and sewage odour are concerned.
Whether at long last, the River Thames is in the process
of being adequately cleansed, remains to be seen, but
it can definitely be said that the improvement manifested
during 1960 has been much appreciated locally, especially
by residents and visitors to the Borough who have been
able to enjoy the amenities of the Corporation's Riverside
Gardens.
D (10) Flooding
Resulting from exceptional rainfall on 2nd August,
flooding incidents were localised and minor in character. In
no instance was it found necessary to have to render material
assistance other than that of removing obstructions from a
number of choked interceptors.
On 7th August when heavy rainfall inundated roads in
the Metropolitan Boroughs, no flooding incidents occurred
in the Borough.
D (11) Council Refuse Tip.
The disposal of town's refuse by barging across the
River Thames to Essex was discontinued in August, since
which date incidental tipping has taken place on Council
land at Manor Road. The site in question is kept under
constant review, particular attention being paid to rodent
and vermin infestations.