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There is a diversified range of matters upon which people seek advice or assistance
and 1,822 such requests and complaints were received. The large number of blocked
and defective drains notified (602 compared to 395 in 1962) is no doubt due to the
fact that it is widely known that a skilled service is available for which only a modest
fee is charged. This service is of great benefit to owners who experience difficulty
in obtaining trade labour at short notice to deal with the considerable nuisance which
arises from obstructed drains.
Reference is made elsewhere in the Report to the number of requests for the
destruction of wasps' nests and complaints of infestations of rats and mice.
Statistical Tables—see pages 81-82.
HOUSING
Although it is only in recent years that the Government has urged local authorities
to provide housing for elderly persons as a major part of their building programme,
the Finchley Council has been concerned with this type of accommodation for some
considerable time and has used ordinary one-bedroom council dwellings for this
purpose.
In 1963, 13 aged persons units from conversions and 8 purpose built units were
provided.
Two schemes for the provision of 35 aged persons purpose built units and two
purpose built bungalows for handicapped persons are under construction and scheduled
for completion in 1964. There will also be a one bedroom flat completed as part of
one of the larger schemes for general housing.
Plans are in hand for 9 flats, a day centre and 4 welfare units of accommodation
for aged persons at 194, Ballards Lane, and there will also be a number of aged persons
units included in the development on other estates for which plans will shortly be
prepared.
With regard to "handicapped" persons, many of these are included in the elderly
persons who have been allocated ground floor accommodation. Also, the Council has
already provided a purpose-built bungalow which houses a man and wife, who are
both handicapped, and provision has been made for two more such bungalows in
another stage of the development in the same area.
In addition to the above, a further 56 flats at East Finchley will shortly be available
for letting. A tender for the erection of 16 maisonettes at 43, Holden Road has been
accepted and the Council have plans for extensive development adjacent to the Vale
Farm area at East Finchley.
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