“One lorry an hour” at the Old Town Tip

Written by Jessica Holtaway and based on an interview with Joan and Terry Allen, by Louise Weissel on September 2nd 2024.

It was general knowledge that there was toxic waste in the Bradford on Avon town tip, explain Joan and Terry Allen. The Allens have lived in Bradford on Avon for over 60 years, Joan moved to the town in 1964 and Terry was born in Trowbridge and lived in various locations before settling in Avon Close. Terry recalls how the dump was a constant presence.

Growing up in the area, Terry worked at the mushroom quarry and at the Avon Rubber Company. He remembers that the factory waste from Avon Rubber was managed by a contracting company, and chemicals were used for various purposes, including making rubber harder. Terry talks about concerns about the safety of the chemicals, particularly following an incident involving a trolley and a vulcanizer.

Living in Avon Close, Joan and Terry were close to the old town tip. They describe the dump as a large, open area frequented by lorries – one an hour – including those from outside the town. It was open in the day and covered at night. They remember the proximity of the tip to the river, and the concerns about pollution – although it was not near enough to directly impact the river in its day-to-day running, it was on a floodplain, as the old golf course is today. Despite the environmental and health risks associated with the dump and its impact on local wildlife, the Allens remember how children often played there, and local residents walked through the area.

Discussing the future of the site, Joan and Terry express unease about how the potential development might affect the quality of life for residents, especially those with mobility issues. Bradford on Avon is already experiencing a lack of amenities, and new developments could exacerbate these issues. In addition, the Allens highlight the importance of preserving green spaces for walking and the impact of new housing on traffic and community dynamics, emphasizing the need for careful consideration of the environmental and social impacts of any new developments.