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Considerable delay took place in the confirmation of the Order by
the Minister, due, so it was stated, to the flush of Inquiries over the
country. However, vigorous representations by the Town Clerk
eventually bore fruit and the Order was confirmed on the 30th September
with the date of operation 1st October 1961.
This delay obviously placed the ten year programme in jeopardy,
but after careful consideration, it was decided to proceed with the
No. 2 Smoke Control Area according to schedule.
The No. 2 Area is that part of the borough south of Cambridge
Park, The Green and Redbridge Lane (West) and has an area of 800
acres. It contains 2,121 premises, made up as follows:-
Commercial premises 2
Dwellings 2,104
Other premises 15
The detailed survey carried out bv the Inspectors showed that
1,600 tons of smokeless fuel for open fires and 100 tons of smokeless
fuel for boilers will be required to replace bituminous coal at present
used.
It further revealed that 2,984 replacements or adaptations of
existing fireplaces are necessary to burn smokeless fuel, at an
estimated total cost of £25,383.
At its meeting on the 13th September, the Public Health Committee
made the Smoke Control Order for this area and submitted it to the
Minister for confirmation. In accordance with Circular 28/60 from
the Minister of Housing and Local Government. 22 premises which
had no gas supply were given exemption on condition that "only
authorised fuels, as declared by regulations under the Clean Air Act
1956, and kindling sticks and paper shall be used in the fireplaces."
I would emphasise that the most satisfactory way of lighting
smokeless fuel at present is by gas, preferably with a burner as part
of the appliance. Several electric fire-lighters are now on the market,
and when approved by the Minister for grant purposes, will fill a gap
and may make exemptions unnecessary. Wood and paper are not
really satisfactory for lighting smokeless fuels, and can oroduce considerable
quantities of smoke during the ignition period.
One objection to the No. 2 Smoke Control Order lodged with the
Minister, was subsequently withdrawn. A Public Inquiry was not
therefore necessary.
Meanwhile, following confirmation of the No. 1 Smoke Control
Order, application forms for approval of works of conversion or
adaptation of fires were distributed to all householders and owners
of houses with unsuitable appliances. By the end of the year. 71 applications
had been received.
Whilst only a small number of applications have been received, it
is pleasing to note that some applicants who intend continuing to
burn solid fuel, have decided to instal openable or closed stoves.
17