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17
River Pollution.
A close watch continues to be kept upon the condition of our
local streams and the co-operation of the Essex River Board has
ensured a mutual exchange of information which enables the scene
to be viewed comprehensively instead of as could so easily happen
parochially.
The condition of the River Thames is being dealt with on a
long-term basis by the authorities concerned although meetings of
riverside authorities have taken place with a view possibly to doing
what they can to expedite and ensure the adequacy of the remedial
measures planned.
The river Ingrebourne changes little as the years go by. It is
still unsatisfactory and it will always be unsatisfactory to reflect
upon how far its flow depends on the effluent of a neighbouring
authority's sewage works. The course of the river has been improved
by straightening it somewhat in parts and cleaning it out,
but whatever may be the ultimate effect of a regional sewage scheme
coming into being, some disquiet is bound to arise from time to time
until a satisfactory scheme comes to fruition. In the absence of
actual disquiet only a sense of acceptance borne of experience
enables the situation to be suffered.
Ponds.
Complaints are received from time to time concerning the
various collections of water in the district occurring either on left
over pieces of old building sites or as permanent features of the
district. The question with which we are interested is of course
largely one of whether or not any individual instances provide a
demonstrable danger to health and it is to this end our enquiries
and subsequent actions are directed.
Swimming Bath.
Good progress was made during the year towards the provision
of a Swimming Bath suitable to the needs of the area, and although
the matter is as yet in its early stages, no time is being lost in pressing
on with it.
Crematorium.
Progress was made towards the establishment of a crematorium
to serve other authorities also and proposed to be sited near
Upminster.
Sandpits.
It has become almost traditional in some areas that sandpits
should be provided for the benefit of the younger members of the
community. Whilst this may have its advantages in that it provides
a source of distraction for them, whilst at the same time relieving
their parents of undue anxiety as to their Welfare, it can be argued