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Applications for Standard and Discretionary Grants received by
the Borough Surveyor are referred to me for an opinion as to the
fitness and anticipated life of the dwelling houses concerned. It is
normal to carry out an inspection and to apply the Statutory Standards
of Fitness (Housing Act, 1957). The total number of houses so inpected
during 1968 was 602.
Caravan Sites and Control of Development Act, 1960.
The number of site l0icences operating at 31st December, 1968,
was five, and the permitted number of caravans, including those kept
on two sites occupied by members of the Showmen's Guild, was 41.
Ninety-one visits were made to sites during the year.
From time to time itinerant caravans were found to be parked
on unauthorised sites and as the result of visits, the occupiers were
persuaded to remove their vehicles.
Registration of Hairdressers and Barbers.
The Council adopted the provisions of the Greater London
Council (General Powers) Act, 1967, insofar as they relate to the
Registration of Hairdressers and Barbers. By Resolution the Council
fixed the First day of April, 1968, as the appointed day for the purpose
of Section 21 of the Act and authorised me to deal with Applications
for Registration. A new system of inspection and recording of
these premises was instituted and 167 premises were registered during
1968 after each had been inspected and any necessary works carried
out.
CONCLUSION
It is hoped that this Report reflects the good standard which has
been maintained and the variety of work which has been covered by
the Public Health Inspectors, Technical Assistants and clerical staff.
On 1st January, 1968, there were two vacancies for District
Public Health Inspectors. During 1968 four further Inspectors left,
having obtained appointments elsewhere and four Inspectors were
appointed leaving the same deficiency at the end of the year. Despite
these upsetting changes, it is pleasing to record that the overall number
of inspections increased by 4,455. It is becoming apparent that
the volume of work in the Borough is increasing and, in order to
strengthen the inspectorate, it is hoped that early consideration might
be given to the appointment of further Senior Inspectors for supervisory
duties.
The four Pupil Public Health Inspectors were all successful in
passing their respective annual examinations, and two are expected to
qualify during 1969.
My thanks are due to the technical staff for the extra effort required
of them in maintaining coverage of those districts in the Borough
where there was no Inspector, and to the clerical staff for their excellent
supporting administrative work.
G. H. COCKELL
Chief Public Health Inspector.
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