Historic Coalbrookdale Aga foundry site up for sale

The Aga foundry shut for the final time in November, with the 42 remaining workers leaving their boots and helmets on the famous 'Coalbrookdale Co' gates as they left.

It is believed the sale of the site is being managed by professional services and investment management company JLL.

Telford & Wrekin Councillor Nicola Lowery, who represents the Ironbridge Gorge ward, said she had spoken to the site owner and understands the site will be put on the market with the industrial units intact.

She said: “This is highly encouraging as it will certainly promote the industrial potential whilst hopefully taking an innovative approach to how the site can evolve to future-proof for the future.

“The Coalbrookdale foundry resides within the world heritage site boundary and conservation area, therefore this will have to be considered as part of any future proposal, given our duty to protect and enhance the outstanding universal value of the Ironbridge Gorge World Heritage Site.

“I shall continue working closely with the owners and look forward to working with JLL to secure a positive and innovative use for the site.”

Councillor Lowery said she was “extremely optimistic” for the year ahead. She added: “It was extremely sad to see the Ironmen of Coalbrookdale leave the foundry for the final time, but their legacy and achievements continue to live on in many ways in the Gorge through the many different memories and castings across our community.

“I understand some of the Ironmen have also secured work in local foundries, which is excellent news so they can continue to use their skills and experience in this unique sector.

“As for the future, it is imperative we begin to look at the future use proactively, to secure an appropriate and sensitive buyer who is able to understand the potential of this site. As the birthplace of the industrial revolution, the history associated with this site is unparalleled.

“Therefore, it is essential that a buyer is identified that takes inspiration from this.”

The foundry was started in the 18th century by Abraham Darby I, who developed new processes for smelting iron.

This was a major step forward in the production of iron as a raw material for the Industrial Revolution.

Over the years the company stayed on the cutting edge of iron founding and played a key role in the building of the Iron Bridge and countless other landmarks around the world.

Aga Rangemaster announced that it would be closing the Coalbrookdale Foundry in May last year, saying that it was no longer “economically viable”.

A crowd of former staff members and residents gathered outside the factory to say goodbye to staff members when it closed for business on November 23.

Many of the last Iron Men had turned up for work that morning and were told they were no longer needed and were sent home.

Dozens of people gathered outside to say goodbye to the iconic workplace.

Aga Rangemaster was sold to Illinois-based food services giant Middleby Corporation in 2015, in a deal worth about £129 million.