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''Trade Refuse.—The Contract System with, traders continues
in operation most satisfactorily, and has been extended as opportunity
arose during the year. So far no trader has withdrawn
from the scheme except where they have left the town. The amount
of refuse delivered by traders to the works for disposal has shown a
reduction on the previous year.
"Refuse Disposal.—It is now possible to form an estimate of
the efficiency of the extended plant, and in spite of certain setbacks
which were experienced in the beginning, the alterations have proved
economical, and after meeting the increased loan charges have
effected a considerable financial saving.
"The salvage markets have been anything but good during
the year. During the early part the markets were extremely dull
and resulted in difficulties in moving stocks. When the crisis
occurred in September movements became easier, but prices were,
fortunately for the country, strictly controlled, so that although
movement became easier, prices remained very much on their
previous level, and this state continued until the end of the year.
The national call for scrap which was issued resulted in numerous
Authorities throughout the country putting a salvage scheme into
operation, and should result in an appreciable increase in the
amount of home produced scrap.
"Street Cleansinq.—Every endeavour has been made during the
year to improve this service. New roads have been taken over and
plans formulated for the erection throughout the Borough of SubDepots
for use by sweepers. Facilities are being provided for the
storage and cleansing of trucks, whilst spare bins at each Depot
will obviate the emptying of sweepings into heaps and effect
economies in the removal of sweepings. So far the only Sub-Depot
in use is in the Stores Depot of the Housing Department in Billet
Road, but the results have been most encouraging.
"Gully Cleansing.—The periodic cleansing, disinfecting and
sealing of the gullies has been carried out mechanically. During
the year only one complaint was received regarding offensive smells
from gullies, and this was dealt with the same day.
'"General.—During the year steady progress has been made,
and it is evident that the public are becoming more Cleansingminded,
and appreciative of the work done. Vehicles have been
reconditioned and repainted, litter baskets fixed at Bus Stops,
summer uniforms supplied to all street cleansing staff and motor
drivers, and the public in their turn have responded by a reduction
in the amount of litter thoughtlessly thrown down.