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48
Conveyance of Offensive Substances through the Streets.
The subjoined letter was in answer to a request from the Metropolitan
Board of Works asking for information on this subject.
"The collection and carriage of offensive materials through the streets is
"chiefly by means of iron tanks and vans with tarpauling covers. The greatest
"part of the collection is done during the evening. The stowage lasts but for a
"few hours in places where the material is exposed to the open air. When how"ever
the material is emptied into premises under railway arches, it remains
"partially exposed and open (within the arch) for a considerable period of time.
"The premises for the storage of offensive materials are under the supervision
"of the Inspector of Nuisances, who has instruction from the Vestry to visit
"them regularly and report upon them. The complaints with respect to these
"offensive materials have not hitherto been so much as to the mode of collection
"and carriage through the streets, but rather as to the manner, duration, and the
"place of stowage. The Vestry has been using means during the last two years
"to induce the owners of premises used for the storage of these offensive materials
to abate the nuisance—partial success only, has attended their efforts.
Mansion House Council.
On October 18th, 1887, I read a synopsis of complaints received from the
Secretary of the Council. The matters were referred to the Sanitary Committee.
I am, Gentlemen,
Very truly yours,
JOSEPHUS SHAW,
Medical Officer of Health.