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11. SWIMMING BATHS AND POOLS.
(a) Public. The Corporation baths are situate in Denmark
Road and comprise two pools, one of which was in use throughout
the year, whilst the other was used for swimming during the
summer months and for the winter months was converted for use
as a hall for concerts, dancing, balls, etc.
(b) Private. There are no privately owned swimming baths
or pools open to the public in the Borough.
120 ERADICATION OF BED BUGS.
During the year 51 premises were disinfested, compared
with a figure of 33 for the previous year. Thirteen Corporation
controlled houses were dealt with by the Department during the
year. The long warm summer of 1949 was undoubtedly a contributory
factor in this rather large increase of work in this
connection.
13. COMPLAINTS.
The total figure of 781 is almost exactly the same as
during the previous year, viz; 783. A feature worthy of note
was the number of communications which related to the
quality or soundness of foodstuffs. The number of these
letters was 43 or of the total complaints,. This is not
a high percentage in all the circumstances and if viewed in
the light that it reflects a growing food hygiene conscience
amongst the public, then it is a feature to be welcomed by those
who are concerned with safeguarding the food supplies.Not all
of the lettters dealt with matters under the control of the
Corporations, and some were based on incorrect assumptions® All
such complaints, however, receive full consideration and,
where necessary, appropriate action is taken.
The following is a brief tabulated list of causes for complaints
received during 1949:-
Sanitary Defects 266
Rodents 118
Vermin Infestation 52
Non-removal of Refuse 13
Defective Ashbins 20
Drains and Sanitary Arrangements 153
Overcrowding 17
Pood (Quality, Soundness, etc) 43
Nuisance from Smoke 19
Miscellaneous 80
781
14® RODENT AND INSECT PEST CONTROL.
In July 1949 an important enactment - The Prevention of
Damage by Pests Act, 1949 - received the Royal Assent. This
Act replaces the Rats and Mice Destruction Act, 1919, which
had certain inherent weaknesses and which was not at all
popular with those whose task it was to eliminate rodent
infestations. The new Act contains important provisions
regarding the structural repair and proofing of infested
premises.