Ironbridge Gorge World Heritage Site Management Plan reaches next milestone
Work to prepare the next Ironbridge Gorge World Heritage Site Management Plan is progressing following a successful period of public and stakeholder engagement.
Earlier this year, Telford & Wrekin Council in partnership with Shropshire Council invited residents, businesses, organisations and visitors to help shape the next Management Plan through a public consultation. The project has now moved into the next stage, with work underway to review feedback and prepare the first draft of the new plan.
The consultation generated a high level of engagement, with valuable feedback received through the public survey and discussions with a range of local organisations and community groups. Alongside local engagement, the project team is continuing to work with national organisations, including the Forestry Commission and the Environment Agency, to help inform the draft Management Plan.
Councillor Carolyn Healy, Telford & Wrekin Council Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, Planning and Sustainability, said: “I’d like to thank everyone who took the time to complete the survey or speak to us during this first stage of engagement. We’ve been encouraged by the level of interest and the constructive conversations we’ve had with residents, community groups and partner organisations who all share a passion for protecting the Ironbridge Gorge World Heritage Site.
The feedback we’ve received will play an important role as we develop the next draft of the Management Plan. Alongside continued engagement with national organisations, we’re committed to ensuring the plan reflects the unique character, heritage and environmental importance of the Gorge, while providing further opportunities for people to have their say as work progresses.”
The feedback received will help shape the new Management Plan, which will guide the protection, conservation and management of the Ironbridge Gorge World Heritage Site.
Work is now focused on preparing the first draft of the Management Plan, drawing on the feedback received through the consultation and ongoing engagement with local and national stakeholders.
Further opportunities for consultation will be planned for autumn 2026, giving residents, businesses and stakeholders another chance to review the emerging draft and provide feedback before the Management Plan is finalised.
A summary of the consultation findings is now available to view here: https://www.ironbridgegorgewhs.co.uk/info/8/management/5/management-plan-review
Further updates on the Management Plan will be shared as work progresses.