John Young recalls atomic power altering Caithness 70 years ago, creating jobs, population growth, and social integration.
He recalled atomic power coming to Caithness seventy years ago. Sites in Golspie and Staxigoe were considered, but Dounreay became the UKAEA site. Construction started in 1955, bringing great benefits, he said.
Young spent 38 years in local government. He joined Caithness County Council in 1961 and later led the District Council. His recording covers various topics, including his war memories and is hosted online by Wick Society’s project.
Sir Christopher Hinton sought reactor sites and visited Caithness and Sutherland. Young remembers 1955 clearly, recalling that Sir David Robertson wanted industry there and convinced Hinton to visit potential sites.
Hinton rejected a site near Golspie first, then rejected one at Staxigoe. Hinton wanted dinner afterwards, but Roberston insisted on seeing Dounreay first. Hinton liked Dounreay instantly.
Dounreay was then established in Caithness, providing much employment, Young said. Many workers came to the county, and Thurso’s population increased greatly. Locals called newcomers “Atomics” in a friendly term and they accepted Caithness’ ways.
They blended well socially, Young noted, and clubs got a boost from them, bringing new ideas. Firms built many new houses quickly, and Dounreay truly benefited the people.
Young remembered the prisoner camp in Watten, where some prisoners worked on farms. Initial hatred faded as they saw Germans as ordinary people forced to fight. Farmers accepted them and treated them hospitably, he said.
Young ran his farm after his father died and also joined the Monte Carlo Rally. He was district council convener for 21 years, spanning the council’s lifetime. Helping people gave him satisfaction, especially helping the most needy, who were grateful, he said.
Wick Voices started in 2016 and now has 457 free recordings. Interviews cover various Wick and Caithness topics.