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The number of factories and employees suggests that the
public electricity supply provides a large proportion of motive
power, especially in the light industries.
Page 6
During inspections comparatively little visible smoke was
observed from factory chimneys and nothing required a report
to the Chief Sanitary Inspector.
The investigator is of the opinion that there is a huge
emission of oxides of sulphur from some of the industrial plants
and for which there appears to be no remedy. None of the flue
gases is washed.
Page 7
It is estimated that some four million pounds of sulphur
dioxide per annum are emitted by industry and some 4.5 million
pounds from domestic chimneys, i.e., a total of over 8-J million
pounds per annum.
Thirty-seven per cent, of the prevailing wind is from the
south-west, i.e., bearing the products of combustion from London
to Walthamstow.
The investigator considers that there is a real risk of a
dangerous build-up of excessive oxides of sulphur if a layer of
warm air overlays a cool lower layer.
The possibility of a warning system is suggested.
Page 8
It is stated that it is not possible to estimate the amount of
sulphur dioxide discharged at ground level by Diesel engines
and vehicles, but it is considerable and continuing.
Page 10
The investigator is of the opinion that his Committee should
consider an approach to the Borough Council with a view to
the measurement of atmospheric pollution for at least one year—
(a) at the Town Hall, and (b) on the high ground of Highams
Park.
Page 11
With regard to the two railways running through the town,
the former L.M.S. line produces no serious pollution, but the
former L.N.E.R. line from Liverpool Street to Chingford has
old locomotives and inexperienced firemen.
There is reported to have been an excessive emission of
smoke in the vicinity of Wood Street and Highams Park Stations
and in this connection attention is drawn to Section 276 of the
Local Government Act, 1933, which may empower proceedings.