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The suspension of nine Smoke Control Orders, mentioned in my last
report, was terminated on 30th April, 1971° The expected shortage of
solid smokeless fuel did not materialise as we were fortunate in having
a very mild winter. The fuel trade advises that production has now increased
to such an extent that all likely demands can be met.
Air Pollution complaints.
There were 167 complaints from the public about nuisance from smoke
and grit; 129 of these concerned bonfires; 8 smoke from factory chimneys;
4 smoking domestic chimneys; 3 grit and smuts; 7 smoke from demolition
sites and 16 fumes.
Now that the Council's Smoke Control Area programme is well advanced
and commercial heating equipment is designed to operate almost smokelessly,
people are more conscious of the discomfort caused by garden bonfires.
This is reflected in the increased number of complaints received. We distribute
an advisory leaflet on the subject, but it is obvious that stronger
measures are required. The National Society for Clean Air is looking into
the possibility of promoting legislation to deal with the more objectionable
bonfires.
Three applications were submitted for approval of chimney heights
under the Clean Air Acts 1956 and 1968. These were approved without modification.
In a further three cases heating engineers consulted the
department about chimney designs for boilers to which Section 6 of the 1968
Act was not applicable. Suitable advice was given in these eases. It is
gratifying to be able to report an increased use of natural gas in large
boiler furnaces, resulting in a reduction in sulphur dioxide emissions.