In the 1950s, the UK government seriously considered using disused coal mines in Gloucestershire as storage sites for nuclear waste. Early in Britain’s atomic energy and weapons program, authorities approved plans to dispose of radioactive waste from research centers such as Harwell and Aldermaston in abandoned collieries within the Forest of Dean.
Some of the proposed sites included New Fancy near Parkend, Crump Meadow, Foxes Bridge, and Lightmoor near Cinderford, as reported in the Dean Forest Mercury on August 20, 1954. However, these plans faced strong opposition from local communities and councils over concerns about safety and inadequate public consultation.
Albert Brookes, chairman of the West Dean Rural District Council at the time, voiced his fears, hoping that public outcry would prevent the dumping. Miners feared that contaminated water could seep from radioactive materials into active mines still in operation, posing serious health risks.
READ MORE: Luxury Hot Chocolate Brand Knoops Brings Gourmet Indulgence to Cheltenham’s Promenade
READ MORE: Update on Wye Valley Viaduct Closure: New Bridge Considered for Long-Term Solution
A special meeting of the three rural district councils was held in Coleford to address these concerns, resulting in a formal protest to the Minister of Housing and Local Government against the authorization granted for waste dumping.
Although government geologists claimed there was no risk of water contamination in the Forest of Dean, local leaders remained unconvinced. Lord Bledisloe referred to the scheme as one that could severely damage a beautiful and healthful area, emphasizing the lack of scientific knowledge about the long-term effects of radioactive waste.
Morgan Philips Price, West Gloucestershire’s MP at the time, echoed the miners’ worries, criticizing what he perceived as a dismissive attitude toward the Forest of Dean, seen by some officials as a derelict mining region unworthy of protection. He demanded greater transparency, assured safety measures, and proper consultation with the three district councils before such plans could proceed.
Ultimately, these proposals to store nuclear waste in Gloucestershire’s old coal mines were abandoned, thanks in part to the concerted efforts of the local communities and their representatives.