Museum plans for cafe on Coalbrookdale site

Plans have been put forward by Ironbridge Gorge Museums to convert buildings on the site of the Museum of Iron into a new cafe.

Under the proposals, a section of the Long Warehouse Building would be transformed into a cafe, which could also be used as a restaurant and function room in the evening.

Architects have also revealed that the basement of an adjoining building was once used as an air raid shelter and could also be opened up to give visitors yet another glimpse into past life at the site.

Ian Edwards of Osbornes Agents said in documents submitted as part of the plans: "The basement level of the attached North Lights building was, at one time, used as an air raid shelter.

"The entrance to this basement level was situated at ground level of the long warehouse, this entrance is currently blocked up with a brick infill. As part of the proposed works this opening will be unblocked and reinstated.

"The access will be situated in the main café area. This new access will give a further visitor experience which relates to the second world war.

"The tour of this area would be by a museum guide. The new opening made into the wall will be up to the existing lintel."

The plans come as part of a £15 million masterplan of upgrades and upcoming work set to take place at the trust over the next 10 years.

Mr Edwards added: "The proposals for the scheme include the provision of a new cafe and associated kitchen. These will provide a larger seating area than that currently available in the adjacent 'Museum of Iron' building.

"The cafe is to provide a dining facility to cater for any visitors to the site and also has the potential to be used for functions outside visitor opening hours."

The building was originally used as a store for the assembly and storage of stoves and kitchen range

equipment until it became disused and redundant .

In 1982, renovations were undertaken by The Telford Development Corporation, converting the building into an Archive for the Ironbridge Institute and the Museum.

This was opened formally on the 11thFebruary 1983 by the then Secretary of State for Education and Science, Sir Keith Joseph.

The plans are available to view on Telford & Wrekin Council's website and a decision is expected to be made in the coming months.