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SINGLE STACK DRAINAGE
Early in 1956, in consultation with the Borough Architect's Department,
experimental work was carried out on one block of Council flats by
introducing what is known as the single stack system of plumbing and
drainage.
We have now had an opportunity of observing the effects of this and
are satisfied that this method of construction of drainage is efficacious.
There is a very considerable saving in cost, as by this method, the number
of pipes required to receive soil, waste water and rainwater is considerably
reduced. Where possible, all W.C's. sinks, baths and washbasins
are connected to a single pipe which is also designed to receive rainwater
from the roofs.
By careful planning and grouping of fitments it has been possible to
shorten the length of the soil and waste pipes, eliminate the need for
anti-syphonage and reduce the number of drain connections to the main
drainage system. This method also results in space which is taken up by
ducts to house pipes, being considerably reduced, resulting in the
addition of more available floor space to each flat. Considerable care has
to be taken in the construction of this drainage method and in particular
there is a danger that if the main drain is obstructed that the soil
drainage may surge up through the lowest fitment which is usually the W.C.
of the ground floor flat. Stoppages, of course, are usually caused by
lack of care on the part of tenants. However, by experiment we have
arranged for a large radius bend to be provided at the foot of each stack
to reduce the risk of stoppages. In addition, we have arranged for the
construction of a relief or "safety valve" gully at the foot of each
stack so that if by mischance there is a stoppage the soil will come
through the gully which is in the open air.
So far as we are aware no other Borough in London has adopted the
system of having a relief gully in the design, and from experience wo
have found this is a very advantageous addition.
It is probable that as a result of these experiments by the Chief
and Deputy Public Health Inspectors that several architects have been
prompted to apply these principles of design to factory and commercial
buildings in the Borough. In addition the London County Council architects
have also applied the single stack system with success in a number of
blocks of flats, including one of eight stories on the Ivy Walk site.
CLEARANCE AREAS.
No official representation under Part III of the Housing Act was
made during the year, but the Haggerston Road and Nicholas Street
Clearance Areas represented in 1956, were confirmed without modification
by the Minister of Housing and Local Government on 4th October, 1957.
36.