Chemicals found dumped at site of former factory
DRUMS of potentially explosive acetone and an organic peroxide have been found dumped on top of a pile of rubbish at the old Wern Works in Briton Ferry.
The once-proud symbol of Welsh industry produced parts for the Concorde supersonic jet before it closed 20 years ago before falling into disrepair.
Built in the 1940s, the abandoned factory is sandwiched between the Neath River and the Neath Canal in Briton Ferry.
Hundreds were employed there when it was fitted to roll aluminium sheeting for the transport and aviation industries.
The skeletal remains of the old buildings are now a site for fly-tipping and arson.
In July, it was reported that there have been 21 fires at the site so far this year.
On the last occasion, 10 tonnes of waste were set on fire, sending plumes of acrid smoke over nearby Briton Ferry.
And fire crews were called to the site again last Friday.
Natural Resources Wales had to call in a specialist contractor to remove the drums before they became a public safety concern.
Officers from South Wales
Police cordoned off the area while the removal operation took place at around 7pm on Friday.
Although commonly found in small quantities in processed food, cosmetics and acne treatments, acetone in large quantities is extremely flammable and can be highly explosive if mixed with oxygen.
If oxidised, acetone becomes acetone peroxide, which is highly unstable when subjected to heat, friction or shock.
Natural Resources Wales confirmed that the two chemicals found at Wern Works, if mixed, would also have been dangerous.
In 2016, a brighter future for Wern Works looked more likely when planning permission was given to demolish the current buildings and build a waste transfer facility. But the plans never went ahead after the developer, Cuddy Group, folded in July 2018, leaving the future of the site uncertain.
Andrea Winterton, duty manager for Natural Resources Wales, said: “The Fire and Rescue Service asked us to attend a fly-tipping hot spot in Neath on Friday after chemicals in drums were found dumped.
“We asked our specialist contractors to attend to deal with and remove the drums to avoid any potential harm to people and the environment.
“The police cordoned off the area and remained on site to ensure the safety of local people.
“The contractors removed the drums and we worked with them and the police to ensure the area was cleared and made safe.”