View report page

14
number of infestations treated. The rodent problem is well under
control and householders appear very satisfied with the free service.
The incidence of infestation in business premises is very low. There
were no major infestations by either rats or mice encountered during
the year.
The control of rats in the sewers was taken a stage further, and
it was possible to carry out intensive treatments in relatively small
areas where there was residual infestation.
Other Pests.
With the discontinuance of the Water Boards operations at
Lonsdale Road, the complaints of swarms of 'midges' (chironomidæ)
have also stopped, thereby confirming that the source of the infestation
was the reservoirs.
The Commons and Open Spaces were sprayed or treated with
residual insecticides where marshy ground or stagnant water might
provide breeding grounds for troublesome insects. The school kitchens
were also treated in the Spring as a routine measure.
ATMOSPHERIC POLLUTION
The full survey of the No. 1 Smoke Control Area, comprising
that part of the Borough in the Castelnau Area and extending southwards
from Hammersmith Bridge to Washington Road, was
completed in May, 1960. The Barnes No. 1 Smoke Control Order,
1960 was made by the Council on 15/6/60 and was confirmed by the
Ministry of Housing and Local Government in January, 1961. The
procedural delays were longer than anticipated and the date for the
coming into operation of the Order was fixed by the Ministry for 1st
November, 1961.
The survey of the No. 2 Area was commenced immediately after
the No. 1 Order had been made and was completed by the end of the
year. It was hoped that the second area would be in operation by
December, 1961 but this is not now likely to materialise.
Generally speaking the advent of these areas has been favourably
received. The complicated administrative procedure and the close
timetable for the payment of grants baffles many of the residents
affected. Often payments are made, especially by elderly people, in
circumstances where no grants can be forthcoming. This still occurs
in spite of publicity, calls, and clearly worded advice in the Smoke
Control booklet, a copy of which has been sent to every house in the
No. 1 Area. Further copies are being distributed in Areas Nos. 2
and 3.