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1,735 Complaints and requests for services were received. The heavy demand
of 1963 for the clearance of blocked drains was repeated emphasising the value to
the public of this service.
Particulars of the number of requests for the destruction of wasps' nests and
notifications of infestation of rats and mice are reported elsewhere.
Six complaints were received about nuisance from pigeons. A brief account of
the action taken by the Council is reported in a paragraph in the section " Disinfection
and Disinfestation."
Statistical Tables— see pages 67-68.
HOUSING
Since my last report, the Finchley Council has continued to provide housing for
elderly persons whenever a suitable site becomes available or premises suitable for
conversion could be obtained. In 1964, 18 aged persons' units have been completed
and another 24 will shortly be available. There will also be a number of aged persons'
units included in the development of other estates for which plans are now being
prepared.
The needs of the "handicapped" are not overlooked and ground floor accommodation
is often made available for this type of housing applicant. During the year,
two specially designed bungalows have also been constructed for paraplegic cases.
1 x 11-storey block of 44 flats, together with 1 x 3-storey block of 12 flats have
been completed and tenders are now being invited for a scheme comprising 9 flats at
194, Ballards Lane. Included in this development there are a day centre and 4 welfare
units of accommodation for aged persons.
The scheme for the erection of 16 maisonettes at 43, Holden Road is now 60%
complete and planning permission is now awaited for the development of the site at
"Rocklands," Gordon Road, to provide 28 flats and maisonettes.
The acquisition of further land within the development area at Vale Farm, East
Finchley, is proceeding.
The Council continue to endeavour to make the best use of existing Council
dwellings by arranging transfers and reducing under-occupation.
The Public Health Department was actively concerned with housing applications,
in some cases supported by medical certificates, referred by the Borough Valuer and
Housing Officer for consideration of additional points on medical grounds, sanitary
circumstances and state of overcrowding. Additional points were recommended in
69 cases and special consideration was urged in 29 cases. Where the medical
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