Shaun Davies MP attended the official handover of the Ironbridge Gorge Museum sites at Blists Hill this week, celebrating the museums’ reopening in May and marking an important step in securing the future of one of Telford’s most treasured heritage attractions.
The handover follows the £9 million Government funding package announced last year after Shaun fought to secure the long-term future of the museums.
Shaun Davies, MP for Telford, said: “It’s fantastic to see this handover completed. Since being elected I made it my mission to fight for the future of our incredible cultural assets.
“The Ironbridge Gorge Museums are more than just buildings – they represent a living history of working-class Britain, they are a window into Shropshire’s past, the story before Telford and the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution. They’re a huge part of Telford’s identity and something we can all be proud of.”
“The £9 million investment from the Government, alongside this partnership with the National Trust, means these museums will be protected and cared for generations to come. It’s great news for local people, for visitors and for the local economy.”
The MP, alongside Councillor Carolyn Healy, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, Planning and Sustainability, presented Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust Chairman Mark Pemberton with an award in recognition of his longstanding dedication and exceptional contribution to the Trust over many years.
The new partnership will help protect the Ironbridge Gorge estate while supporting tourism, education and conservation, ensuring this unique part of Telford continues to be enjoyed for many years to come.
