Views sought on future of the Ironbridge Gorge World Heritage Site
Telford & Wrekin Council, together with partners across the Ironbridge Gorge, is inviting residents, businesses, organisations and visitors to help shape the next 10-year World Heritage Site Management Plan.
A public consultation is now open from Thursday 26 February to Sunday 15 March 2026, giving people the chance to share their experiences, ideas and priorities for the future care of the Ironbridge Gorge.
Every UK World Heritage Site must regularly update its management plan to meet UNESCO and Historic England requirements. The current plan (2017–2027) is now approaching its end, and work is beginning on a refreshed plan that will guide the Site’s protection, conservation and development through to 2037.
Over the past decade, major work has been carried out across the Gorge from conserving heritage assets to improving public spaces and enhancing flood resilience. The next plan will build on this progress and will be shaped by the views of the community, local organisations and visitors.
Residents and stakeholders can take part by completing a survey which is available at Ironbridge Co-op and Ironbridge Post Office, as well as at Madeley and Broseley Libraries and can be completed online too.
Councillor Carolyn Healy, Telford & Wrekin Council Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, Planning & Sustainability, said: “The Ironbridge Gorge World Heritage Site is internationally important and locally treasured. This is an opportunity for people who live, work and visit here to help shape the future of this remarkable place. Your views will help us understand what matters most and ensure the next decade’s plan reflects local priorities and protects the Gorge for generations to come.”
Ken Sloan, Chair of the Ironbridge Gorge World Heritage Site Steering Group, added: “As we start the fortieth years since Ironbridge Gorge was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, we are reviewing the Management Plan for these important cultural and heritage assets. I encourage everyone who has an interest in or benefits from these amazing places and resources to respond to the survey we have launched. Responses will inform our future priorities and objectives which will be captured in our Management Plan for the coming period.”
To take part in the consultation, visit online1.snapsurveys.com/eokdfk.
