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6. CLEAN AIR ACT, 1956—SMOKE CONTROL AREAS.
The first steps in the formation of a Smoke Control Area in the
Borough were taken during the year, with a pilot survey of the
proposed area to be known as the "Barn Hill No. 1 Smoke Control
Area." The pilot survey was carried out in order that the following
information required by the Minister to comply with Stage 1 in the
establishment of a Smoke Control Area could be ascertained:—
(1) A map showing the proposed area.
(2) Particulars of the classes of buildings (domestic, commercial,
industrial, etc.) to which the Order would apply, and
the approximate number in each case.
(3) The best guidance possible at this stage on the cost of any
adaptations in private dwellings which would qualify for
grant.
(4) An approximate estimate of the amount of bituminous coal
or other smoky fuel to be replaced, and, however roughly,
the best estimate of the additional supplies of the various
smokeless fuels that will be required, staling the basis of
the calculations.
(5) The date on which it is proposed to bring the Order into
operation.
In the pilot survey 124 domestic premises and 24 other premises
were visited and the results of this survey showed that raw coal was
being consumed in 71 dwellings visited and that 53 residents were
living in smokeless houses. It was further found that in 69 premises
adaptation of fuel appliances in one way or another would be required,
while the very high proportion of 55 out of 124 would require no
adaptation, and consequently no cost would be incurred. It was
therefore estimated that the total expenditure required (other than
administration costs) in making the area into a Smoke Control Area,
would be £4,439, of which £1,775 would be borne by the National
Exchequer and £1,332 by the Council.
Ministry approval for a detailed survey of this area has been
received and will proceed when circumstances permit.
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