Ironbridge Gorge Museums heralded as ‘beacon of industrial heritage’
The Ironbridge Gorge Museums have been held up as a shining example of heritage done right.
A new report released by the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Industrial Heritage said heritage groups needed to do more to engage with the public and local press.
But Ironbridge Gorge was called a “beacon of industrial heritage” in the report, with chairman Nick Thomas-Symonds MP, saying it was ahead of the curve in terms of encouraging younger people.
The report explores how England’s industrial heritage can be protected so that future generations can explore how the country became an economic powerhouse.
Mr Thomas-Symonds said: “The aristocracy have left their mark on our country. But, equally, so have working people.
“That is why industrial heritage is so important, not only because of its current economic potential but because understanding it is a key to our national identity. Let’s do all we can to preserve it and utilise it for our generation, and all those who will follow us.”
The report suggested a number of ways that investment could be increased, including developing links with the creative industry and introducing relevant commercial opportunities.
They said training sessions should be held to help identify industrial heritage assets, and that anniversaries and events could be better promoted. Inclusivity, including the roles of women and racial minorities,would help attract a wider range of people, the report said.
They said more should be done to develop relationships between trusts and groups within the sector to help promote collaboration.
Councillor Nicola Lowery, borough councillor for the Ironbridge Gorge, has written to Nick Thomas-Symonds MP, chair of the group, and is working with Telford’s MP Lucy Allan to discuss the proposal with Ministers.
Identity
Councillor Lowery said: “The report makes a number of key recommendations and I particularly welcome the suggestions on the inclusivity of industrial heritage as a sector by improving community and industry outreach, as our communities play a vital part in preserving the history of our industrial heritage.
“Our industrial heritage was and still is central to the development of our international identity and it is vital we proactively seek to preserve these sites both now and in the future.
“As the birthplace of industry I am delighted to see the Ironbridge Gorge has been included within the report, as the Industrial Revolution is where our legacy as an international economic powerhouse began. The Ironbridge Gorge is now at a pivotal stage as we look at our post-industrial future and I hope the rich history within our sites can provide inspiration for education, future industry and technological innovation.”
Councillor Lowery said the future of the Gorge was now at a pivotal stage.
“I am delighted to see that the Ironbridge Gorge has been included within the report, as the Industrial Revolution is where our legacy as an international economic powerhouse began.
“The Ironbridge Gorge is now at a pivotal stage as we look at our post-industrial future and I hope the rich history within our sites can provide inspiration for future industry and technological innovation.
“I have written to Nick Thomas-Symonds MP to see how the Ironbridge Gorge can contribute to shaping the industrial heritage strategy and how we can support to ensure this commitment is secured. “
Ms Allan said: “I welcome the report published by the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Industrial Heritage on how best to preserve and utilise our great industrial heritage.
“Ironbridge is a very important historical site and is representative of the industrial revolution, so it is vital that we have plans in place to preserve its history.”
