View report page

In anticipation of the implementation of the Clean Air Act, the method of recording of
observations was altered and the use of the Ringelmann Chart became part of the normal
routine.
There was a very considerable increase in the number of observations taken. The
findings during 1958 were:—
that on 16 occasions black smoke (Ringelmann 4) was detected from 10 industrial
premises;
on 47 occasions dark smoke (Ringelmann 2-4) was detected from 14 industrial premises.
One of the firms giving out black smoke was in a neighbouring Borough and the matter
was referred to the Medical Officer of Health of that Borough for action. In all the other
instances, discussions took place with the owners of the appropriate firms and in most cases
some improvement was achieved during the year.
In four cases the requirements were likely to be extensive and discussions were continuing
as to the best method for improving the nuisance caused.
In no instance was black smoke emission of sufficient quantity to warrant prosecution.
The coming into operation of the section of the Clean Air Act, 1956, on Smoke Control
Areas meant that Southall had to be divided into districts to form a plan for the gradual
obtaining of complete smoke control, and in 1958 work was started on the assessment and
preparation of a scheme for the first Smoke Control Area in Southall, an area of 62 acres on
the southern side of the Borough comprising 353 houses, 7 industrial premises and 8 other
premises.
46