MP leads new calls to restore industrial site
THE owners of one of the largest abandoned industrial sites in North Wales have been urged to redevelop it before it falls into further dilapidation.
The 27-acre Friction Dynamics car parts factory site in Caernarfon has lain empty since 2008 when it was bought by Warwickshire-based property developers the St Francis Group.
The brownfield site has fallen into a state of significant disrepair and local politicians are pleading with the new owners to redevelop it as soon as possible with a view to creating new jobs.
Arfon MP Hywel Williams said: “This unique site is ideally placed to attract a prestige development, with its unrivalled location on the banks of the Menai Strait coupled with its proximity to the A55 and the planned Caernarfon bypass.
“It’s vitally important that the site’s potential is tapped into as soon as possible; firstly so that prospective investors can see the huge benefits of investing in Caernarfon and the surrounding area and secondly, so that any current EU help can be sought before Brexit negotiations begin.
“The site cannot be allowed to fall further into dilapidation, nor for that matter should it be acquired for cheap commercial purposes. We must take full advantage of the location, size and the local economic potential it offers.”
The plant, originally known as Ferodo, was the scene of one of the longest industrial disputes in the region’s history.
Opened by Princess Margaret in 1962 the workforce quickly built up and by 1970 more than 1,100 were employed at the factory which made linings for car brake and clutch systems.
In 1997 it was bought by American Craig Smith who renamed it Friction Dynamics.
In April 2001, Transport and General Workers Union (T&G) members staged industrial action over terms and conditions but were locked out. Bosses later sacked the workers sparking a three-year dispute.
In October 2002, an employment tribunal found they were unfairly dismissed. But before compensation could be paid Friction Dynamics called in the receivers and within weeks another firm, Dynamex Friction, was set up.
The T&G finally called off the protest at Christmas 2003 but the union, now part of Unite, continued a campaign for compensation but conceeded in 2010 they would be unable to get any money from Mr Smith.
Mr Williams, who supported the sacked workers’ campaign, said: “It’s an insult to the workers and unions who fought a long and heroic campaign for their working rights that this once thriving hub of economic activity now lies empty and in such a state of disrepair.”
Mr Williams and Siân Gwenllian AM will be meeting the new owners next month seeking clarity over what the company has in mind for the site.”
Ms Gwenllian added: “Ferodo is a prime location for new employment. It has lain empty, unkempt and neglected for far too long.
“We will be making the case for developing the site as soon as possible, with the aim of creating jobs locally.”
St Francis Group have been asked to comment.