The Netflix miniseries Toxic Town brings global attention back to one of the biggest environmental scandals in the UK, which unfolded in the town of Corby during the 1980s and 1990s. The series tells the story of ordinary citizens fighting against government indifference and corporate negligence, which led to an environmental and social crisis.
The real story dates back to the 1980s when a major steel plant in Corby, a small town in Northamptonshire, was shut down. In an attempt to revitalize the local economy, authorities launched a program to clear the site of industrial waste. However, violations of environmental regulations during the transportation and disposal of toxic materials led to severe health consequences for residents. Trucks carrying hazardous waste moved openly through the town, spreading harmful substances.
The steel plant in Corby, which was closed in 1981.
By the late 1990s, it became evident that the town was facing an environmental catastrophe: there was a sharp increase in the number of children born with congenital limb defects. Confronted with government negligence and a lack of appropriate action, residents decided to unite and seek the truth on their own. A group of mothers, led by Susan McIntyre and Maggie Mahon, turned to lawyer Des Collins and launched a legal battle against Corby Borough Council. Their fight lasted more than a decade and culminated in a significant victory in 2009 when the High Court in London held the local authorities accountable for the consequences of environmental pollution.
The creators of Toxic Town took a meticulous approach to reconstructing the events, casting renowned British actresses such as Jodie Whittaker (Doctor Who) and Aimee Lou Wood (Sex Education). Their vivid and emotionally compelling performances resonated deeply with audiences, sparking public debate on the role of the state and corporate accountability in environmental and public health issues. As Time magazine noted, the series "authentically captures not only the scale of the tragedy but also the determination of ordinary people who stood up to the authorities."
Toxic Town official trailer.
Susan McIntyre, whose family was directly affected by the environmental disaster, stated after the release of the series: "It was important for us to seek clarity and ensure that this never happens to another family again."
Susan McIntyre and actress Jodie Whittaker.
Toxic Town is not just a reflection of past events but also a timely reminder that environmental safety and social responsibility remain pressing issues today. Amid growing global concerns about the state of the environment, the series highlights the importance of active civic engagement and demonstrates that even the most challenging problems can be addressed when society unites for a common cause.
