International Asbestos Memorial, Clydebank
A solemn tribute in Clydebank honoring victims of asbestos exposure and the town’s industrial heritage.
The International Asbestos Memorial in Clydebank, Scotland, solemnly honors the victims of asbestos exposure and related illnesses. Located at 12 Alexander Street, this poignant monument features five polished metallic blocks etched with names of known victims, set in a reflective plaza. It commemorates Clydebank’s industrial heritage and the tragic human cost of asbestos used extensively in shipbuilding and manufacturing in the area.
A brief summary to International Asbestos Memorial
- 12 Alexander St, Clydebank, G81 1RZ, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Take a moment to sit on the plaza benches to reflect quietly on the memorial’s significance.
- Visit nearby Clydebank Museum to explore more about the town’s shipbuilding and industrial history.
- Respect the solemn nature of the site; photography is allowed but keep noise to a minimum.
- Learn about the local Clydebank Asbestos Group’s ongoing support for affected families.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Bus
Take the local bus services from Glasgow city center to Clydebank, which typically take 25 to 35 minutes. Buses stop within walking distance of Alexander Street. Service frequency is moderate, with fares around £2 to £4 one way.
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Train
Use the train from Glasgow Queen Street to Clydebank station, approximately a 15-minute journey. From the station, it is a 10-minute walk to the memorial. Trains run frequently during the day, with fares starting at about £3.
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Car
Driving to 12 Alexander Street offers flexible access with parking options nearby. Travel time from Glasgow is around 20 minutes depending on traffic. Note that parking may be limited during peak hours.
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Walking
If staying locally, the memorial is accessible on foot via paved urban routes. Walking times vary but expect about 15 minutes from central Clydebank. Terrain is flat and suitable for most visitors.
International Asbestos Memorial location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about International Asbestos Memorial
The Legacy of Asbestos in Clydebank’s Industrial Rise
Clydebank was once a powerhouse of heavy industry, particularly known for shipbuilding and engineering. From the late 19th century through much of the 20th century, asbestos was widely used in this region for insulation and fireproofing, especially in ship construction. Major companies such as Turner & Newall operated factories producing asbestos-cement products, and the John Brown shipyard famously used asbestos in building liners like the Queen Elizabeth II. This industrial boom came at a grave human cost, as many workers were exposed to asbestos dust, leading to severe health consequences including mesothelioma. Clydebank recorded one of the highest rates of asbestos-related mortality in the UK, marking a dark chapter in its industrial history.A Monument to Remember the Known and Unknown
The International Asbestos Memorial stands as a tribute to all those affected by asbestos-related diseases, both known victims and those unrecorded. The memorial comprises five highly polished metallic blocks, each etched with the names of known victims, symbolizing both remembrance and respect. The monument is situated in a small public plaza that includes seating areas, inviting visitors to reflect on the sacrifices made by workers and the wider community impacted by asbestos exposure. The pavement bears an inscription reading “International Asbestos Memorial, For All Those Known And Unknown,” underscoring the inclusive nature of this remembrance.Community and Artistic Vision Behind the Memorial
The memorial was initiated by the Clydebank Asbestos Group, a community organization formed in 1992 to support victims and families affected by asbestos. The project was driven by a desire to acknowledge industrial achievements alongside the human cost, blending commemoration with social justice. Local artist Tom McKendrick, born in Clydebank, was commissioned to create a contemporary yet respectful piece that honors the skill and pride of the workers while confronting the tragedy of occupational disease. Funded through community subscriptions and sponsorships, the memorial reflects Clydebank’s unique industrial heritage and its commitment to remembering those lost.The Memorial’s Setting and Atmosphere
Located at 12 Alexander Street, the memorial’s modest plaza offers a tranquil space amid Clydebank’s urban environment. The polished metallic blocks gleam in changing light, creating a contemplative atmosphere. The seating invites quiet reflection, making the site not only a place of remembrance but also a space for mindfulness and respect. The memorial’s design and setting evoke both the industrial past and the enduring human spirit, connecting visitors emotionally to the history and ongoing legacy of asbestos exposure.Significance Beyond Clydebank
Though rooted in Clydebank’s local history, the International Asbestos Memorial carries an international message about the dangers of asbestos and the importance of workplace safety. It stands as a symbol of solidarity with victims worldwide and a call for corporate responsibility and social justice. The memorial highlights the global impact of industrial hazards and the need for continued vigilance to protect workers’ health.Preserving Memory and Inspiring Awareness
The memorial continues to serve as a focal point for remembrance events and educational efforts. It honors the courage and sacrifices of workers while raising awareness about the ongoing risks of asbestos. By preserving the memory of those affected, the site fosters a deeper understanding of industrial history’s human dimension and the vital importance of health and safety in the workplace.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Reflective
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
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For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
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For the social media creator & influencer
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For the eco-conscious traveler
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For the kind of experience you’re after
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For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
