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of the tidal defences between Purfleet and Coldharbour Point,
(Cunis's Tip) has been virtually completed. The scheme which
involved the construction of a lightweight parapet in heavy
duty corrugated asbestos cement was carried out by the Essex
River Authority's own labour force under the direction of the
Southern Area Engineer.
Havering Sluice has been largely reconstructed by direct
labour in order to achieve a higher standard of tidal defences; to
insure a higher factor of safety against the accidental entry of
salt water and also to facilitate future maintenance of this
sluice. This work combined with the reconstruction of Beam
River sluice the previous year and the appointment of Resident
Sluice Keepers at Rainham rates a major improvement in safeguarding
the low-lying areas against flooding both by fresh and
salt water.
During the year under review a survey of the River Ingrebourne
showed the quality of the river within the Borough area to be
generally better than previous years. This was no doubt due to
the near completion of the Nags Head Lane sewage disposal
works and the greatly improved effluent being discharged therefrom.
A survey of the Beam River in June showed minor pollutions
from farm drainage in the upper reaches, but these were generally
local in effect and were subsequently stopped. Through the
urban area slight deterioration of quality obtained but this can
be expected in built-up areas. The river below Bretons Farm
continued to show great improvement in quality over previous
years.
Several instances of pollution to standing water from refuse
tips arose, but in each case arrangements were made for the
disposal of this water sithout significant pollution to streams.
One instance of heavy oil pollution to the River Rom
resulted from vandals damaging oil storage tanks on a small
industrial estate in Romford. In this case, swift action by the
Police and Council workmen helped to reduce the effects of oil
contamination of river banks downstream.
The radio-activity level (Beta-activity) and the bacterial
count (E. Coli) were both checked frequently in both rivers and
were found to be at a low and safe level at all times.
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