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18
In order to comply with this request for additional information
a slum clearance survey was carried out in the Borough and the
programme, as finally submitted, related to 26 areas containing
approximately 966 houses. The survey was completed in August.
The survey and treatment of rat infestation in the Borough on
the lines approved by the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries
continued during the year.
The survey involved a visit to all dwelling-houses and business
premises in the Borough and the occupiers were asked either personally
or by questionnaire to state whether or not their premises were
infested by rodents. Co-operation was received from 20,229
occupiers, of whom 848 indicated that their premises were infested
by rats, while 1,443 occupiers reported mice infestation.
The areas showing the greatest infestation were Hackney Wick;
Dalston Lane/Ridley Road; the area bounded by Kingsland Road,
Kings land High Street and Stoke Newington High Street; and that
bounded by Mare Street, Amhurst Road, Dalston Lane and Kingsland
High Street.
Wherever it was possible to do so the drains serving the ratinfested
premises were examined and in 228 instances smoke tests
were applied to the drains, of which 77 were found to be defective.
Test baits were laid in and around the infested premises, followed
by poison baits, and post-baiting indicated that 575 premises had
been cleared of rats. Periodic baiting was also continued in the
area of the River Lea and Hackney Cut Navigation, and on bomb
sites throughout the Borough.
Although it is too early yet to estimate the permanent effects
of the extensive campaign of rodent repression carried out during
the year, there is every reason to hope that by continuous efforts it
will be possible to maintain progress in reducing the rodent population
in the Borough.
New legislation during the year, affecting the Public Health
Department, included the Housing Act, 1949, which, among other
things, removes limitations on the powers of local authorities by
the deletion of references to the "working classes" in many sections
and now permits action under Section 9 (Repair), of the Housing
Act, 1936, Section 11 (Demolition) and Section 12 (Closing) in respect
of any house. Subject to certain conditions, the Act also permits the
Council to advance monies to owners for the purpose of the repair of
houses and also to make grants towards costs of carrying out works
of improvement to houses. The Act also restores to local authorities