A WESTBURY student is researching the impact of the Lafarge cement works on the town and surrounding area.
Twenty-year-old James Jenkin, a geography student at Bath Spa University, is investigating the subject for his third year dissertation. As far as he is aware, he is the first to undertake such a study.
James plans to cover the cement works and its environmental, social, and economic impact on the area. He is also interested in the protests and pressure groups that were formed in reaction to Lafarge’s activities.
James has lived in Westbury most of his life, and says this is one of the reasons he decided to investigate the subject. He said, “I think it’s because a lot happened when I was growing up, and I wanted to see what it was all about. At the moment I’m trying to work out the content, see what information I have, and design a questionnaire.
“I am researching not only the cement works itself but also the impact on the surrounding area and community, it will take into account the environmental and social implications of the site, along with the reversed aspects of the closure and the economic effects.”
If you think you may have information that would assist James in his studies, please contact him on 07446 164 935. He is particularly interested in the period from 2000-2005.
The cement works was opened by Blue Circle in 1962, with the company announcing its merger with Lafarge in 2001.
Production at the Westbury site ceased in 2009. In 2010 it was announced that the two kilns would be decommissioned, therefore ending the site’s clinker manufacturing capability.
Last year, Lafarge received approval to continue with their current distribution centre in Westbury, but the company said its long-term plans for the site are unlikely to be made until the company’s joint venture with Tarmac is formed.
