Ironbridge's worldwide reputation could benefit whole of Shropshire
Raising the profile of Ironbridge worldwide could have economic benefits for the whole of Telford and Shropshire.
That is the claim of a councillor who has been elected to the board that looks after these areas of importance.
Councillor Nicola Lowery, ward member for the Ironbridge Gorge on Telford & Wrekin Council, said it is "imperative" that the profile of the area is raised.
Councillor Lowery was elected on to the board of trustees for World Heritage UK at its AGM and conference held in Caernarfon last week. She said her aim now is to promote the country's world heritage sites, including Ironbridge.
As part of its work World Heritage UK looks at ways to ensure sites like Ironbridge remain economically viable and helps obtain grants towards their survival.
Councillor Lowery said: "Being elected on to the board of trustees at World Heritage UK is a tremendous honour and I look forward to working with all those involved to explore how we may improve our approach to manage our heritage sites.
"These sites have universal significance and relevance to humanity – and it is imperative that Ironbridge is well represented on this national board to be part of an objective to raise their profile locally, nationally and internationally.
"World heritage sites can provide significant economic benefits which then can be re-invested locally.
"Being part of the board at World Heritage UK will provide the opportunity to contribute to policy and establish linkages within the UK world heritage community and collaborate with key partner agencies.
"This could inform and influence Ironbridge's future and positively contribute to the prosperity of the Gorge and the wider borough of Telford and Wrekin economically, socially and culturally."
Residents, businesses and visitors were consulted this summer on a new blueprint for the management of the World Heritage Site.
The group that forms the World Heritage Site Steering Group, which includes parish and town councils, agencies like the Environment Agency, Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust and the two local authorities covering the site, are seeking views from those who live, work and visit the Gorge to help shape the management plan.
The consultation was carried out from June to August and the results are expected to be published soon.
