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59
Eight primary schools have swimming pools with treatment plants.
In addition to numerous pool-side chemical tests, 28 samples of water
were taken for bacteriological examination, of which 5 were reported as
having a count higher than desirable due to inadequate chlorination.
3. RIVERS AND STREAMS
The River Thames forms the western boundary of the b.orough and is
under the control of the Thames Conservancy. The Hogsmill River, a
tributary of the Thames, for some two miles forms the eastern boundary
and thence flows through the borougho In dry weather a considerable
portion of the flow of this river comprises the effluent from the
Hogsmill Valley Sewage Treatment Works. The Beverley Brook, smother
tributary of the Thames, forms part of the eastern boundary and receives
the effluent of the Worcester Park Sewage Disposal Works.
The pollution of the rivers in particular from litter and waste
arising from house boats occupied by the river-side dwellers and other
river users has been a matter of concern to the department. Members of
the general public can do much to reduce the nuisance from litter and
the practice of dumping large pieces of unwanted furniture, mattresses,
prams and similar items can produce hazards in streams which would otherwise
be attractive amenities. The Council has restricted the use of the
river-side moorings in its ownership to non-residential use and this
should make a useful contribution to the cleanliness of the river.
Whilst the quality of the water in the Thames is improving it is
not fit for bathing.
4. DRAINAGE AND SEWERAGE.
A small quantity of the sewage in the district is discharged to the
sewage disposal works of the Greater London Council at Worcester Park and
to the Wandle Valley Works;, the remainder is dealt with at the Hogsmill
Valley Sewage Treatment Works. This plant which is situated at Lower
Marsh Lane, also deals with the sewage from the Borough of Epsom and
Ewell. With the exception of a few houses, all dwellings are connected
to the main sewerage system.
5. PUBLIC CLEANSING.
The Borough Engineer and Surveyor is responsible for the collection
and delivery of refuse to a central loading point whence it is hauled in
large vehicles to tips operated by contractors employed by the Greater
London Council, who are responsible for the disposal of refuse. The total
amount of refuse passing over the weighbridge during the year ended 31st
December, 1971 was 45,134 tons.