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Most of the dustbins in the Borough are of a movable pattern. It was found
necessary to take action for the renewal of 328 dustbins.
Offensive trade refuse is removed by contractors who collect the fish waste from
the various shops in the Borough and make their own arrangements with the occupiers
of the shops regarding the times of collection. The contractors provide suitable
airtight receptacles which have to satisfy the requirements of the Medical Officer
of Health, and guarantee a collection of the material every other day or weekly,
according to the individual requirements of the premises affected.
When the change-over took place from the old system a considerable number of
complaints were received, particularly regarding noise, but a few regarding nuisance.
At the end of the year, however, an improved type of receptacle had been put into
use and the scheme was working satisfactorily.
Inoffensive trade refuse is removed by the Works Department at a charge of
5s. Od. per load, and during the year 1,656 tons 8 cwts. were so dealt with.
Drainage.—With relatively few exceptions every house in the Borough is
connected with the water-carriage system.
New drainage and extensive reconstruction of old systems are supervised by
the Borough Engineer. In all other instances alterations are inspected by the
sanitary staff. During the year 68 complaints were received with regard to the
defective action of combined drains. On investigation, it was found that 370 houses
in all were affected. In every case the drains were cleared. In all the systems,
except seven, the obstruction was of a temporary nature. In 22 instances choked
interceptors were found. Costs recovered from the owners amounted to £5 9s. Od.
In the following seven instances reconstruction was necessary and the work was
carried out by the owners after service of notices:—1-31, Camrose Street and
2-22, Church Manorway; 158-160, Brewery Road and 2-8, Parkdale Road; 34-46,
Spray Street; 32-34, Lannoy Road; 64-80, Riverdale Road. Six private single
drains were cleared at the request of the owners from whom the costs, totalling
£1 18s. 6d., were recovered.
Cesspools.—The number of cesspools in the Borough is 14, 7 being in Plumstead
and 7 in Eltham. This is an increase of 4 on last year.
Action Taken With Regard to Smoke Abatement.—Thirty-five observations
were made of chimney shafts and one notice was served. Five offences were discovered
and warning letters were sent in each instance. No legal proceedings were
instituted.