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As this was the final year of the Urban District, a statistical review
of Beddington and Wallington during the years in which it was an
Urban District is presented in graph form.
Some of the facts disclosed by the graph may be illuminating to
many readers, particularly the stasis and lack of growth in the years
immediately following the Great War. The graph shows that, in spite
of a spectacular rise in the Birth Rate, the population of the district
during these years actually diminished.
Birth Rate, Population and Housing appear to have varied little
until the year 1925. From that date, however, the growth, disclosed
by the graph, has been remarkably rapid.
It is to be anticipated that in 1938 the problem of housing will
again engage the attention of the Council. The upward trend of population
and the maintenance of the birth rate at a consistently high
level will demand further expansion.
We may all look forward to 1938, the first complete year of Borough
status, with renewed confidence, and, as your new Medical Officer of
Health, I feel sure that the important steps taken by the Council in
1937 in furthering Public Health Schemes for the Borough will bear a
generous harvest in 1938.
I wish to place on record my appreciation of the loyal service and
valuable assistance I have received from all the members of my staff
throughout the year.
I have the honour to be,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Your obedient servant,
PATRICK J. O'CONNELL,
Medical Officer of Health.
July, 1938.
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