Ferodo/Frixtion Dynamex was an old Brake lining manufacturer located just on the outskirts of Caernarfon.
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 as 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.
I have driven past this place on many occasions but never had time to have a look around, fortunately this time I had finished my jobs and was heading back home a little earlier so decided to swing by, luckily access wasn't too difficult and I had a good 30 minutes before my works phone was alerting me of an additional job so it was a quick in and out! I don't think much has been missed as the site has had numerous fires over the years and the office block was a burnt out shell, not to mention the fact the place is littered with asbestos!
As you can see from this photo it was a busy site back in the day.
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 as 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.
I have driven past this place on many occasions but never had time to have a look around, fortunately this time I had finished my jobs and was heading back home a little earlier so decided to swing by, luckily access wasn't too difficult and I had a good 30 minutes before my works phone was alerting me of an additional job so it was a quick in and out! I don't think much has been missed as the site has had numerous fires over the years and the office block was a burnt out shell, not to mention the fact the place is littered with asbestos!
As you can see from this photo it was a busy site back in the day.
