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number of infestations by rats and mice reported showed a substantial
decline on previous years, indicating the success of modern techniques.
With the presence of the River Thames on three sides of the
Borough, however, coupled with the habit of many householders of
throwing out too much bread "for the birds", there will always be a
"reservoir" of infestation which would soon spread if eradication
efforts were to be eased.
Other Pests.
The year 1959 was notable for a marked increase in the number
of wasps' nests reported. Although the Council are under no statutory
obligation to deal with these complaints, a destruction service is maintained
provided the nest can be dealt with without disturbing any
structural features. In all 126 wasps' nests were destroyed without
charge. This is five times the usual number and was no doubt
accounted for by the prolonged good weather in the summer and early
autumn.
ATMOSPHERIC POLLUTION
The implementation of those provisions of the Clean Air Act,
1956 dealing with Smoke Control Areas was begun during the year.
It was decided to commence the ten year programme, for dealing with
the whole Borough, in the Castelnau area. This part of the Borough
was selected because it will link up with the areas already planned
in adjoining parts of West London, and thus form an ever expanding
Smokeless Zone. It also has the advantage of having the River
Thames on three sides to form a natural boundary, thereby reducing
the number of anomalies where one house may be in a Smoke Control
Area and next door may be in an area not being dealt with for some
years. This No. 1 Area should be confirmed by the Minister of
Housing and Local Government in 1960 and will then come into
operation at the commencement of the 1961 heating season. This will
allow ample time for householders to make arrangements for any
necessary conversions or adaptations to their fuel burning appliances.
Where appropriate, 70% grants will be paid based on the estimated
minimum costs of work necessary to comply with the Clean Air Act.
Householders should be very careful, however, to seek approval to
their proposals before starting work if they wish to receive a Grant.
Arrangements are well in hand to bring in a Second Area which
will extend from Castelnau as far South as Church Road and Barnes
High Street. This area may also come into operation late in 1961.
The results of the observations carried out at the three recording
stations in the Borough indicate an overall slight lessening of pollution
from smoke. It is regretted, however, that the volume of sulphur
dioxide shows no reduction. These results are now available for the