Investment safeguards iconic museums

Internationally-renowned Ironbridge Gorge Museums has had its future secured thanks to a major £9 million investment from the UK Government.

Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport Lisa Nandy made the announcement during a visit to Telford and also confirmed a new and trasformative partnership with the National Trust, which will become the new custodian of the museums in early 2026.

This historic agreement marks a powerful recognition of the cultural, historical, and educational importance of the Ironbridge Gorge – a UNESCO World Heritage Site and cradle of the Industrial Revolution.

The result of a campaign led by Telford’s MP Shaun Davies, the funding package and custodianship agreement ensures the preservation and revitalisation of one of the UK’s most treasured heritage destinations.

Shaun said: “From the moment I took office, 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, and they are a window into Shropshire’s past, the story before Telford and the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution.

“This is a game-changer – securing the future of these museums for generations to come. We owe it to those who came before us to protect this legacy, and now we can look to the future with pride and confidence.”

Lisa Nandy praised the campaign efforts of Shaun Davies  and the Ironbridge team, calling the investment “a bold commitment to our industrial heritage and a clear sign of the Government’s belief in Telford’s national importance - and the importance of the World Heritage site in the Gorge”.

“As someone raised in Telford, I remember visiting the museums as a child,” Shaun said. “Now, with this investment and the National Trust’s involvement, I know future generations will be able to walk those same paths and understand the powerful legacy we’re so lucky to inherit.”

Chairman of the Board of Trustees at Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust Mark Pemberton said: "Ironbridge was important as the birthplace of industry and now as a major tourist destination it plays a part in the success of the local economy.”

Paul Forecast, National Trust regional director, said: “The National Trust is dedicated to preserving unique places on behalf of the nation, and Ironbridge Gorge couldn’t be more at home in our care.

"We’d like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust who have looked after these special sites and collections since 1967, caring for them and sharing their story with visitors from around the globe.

"With the support of Arts Council England, Historic England, and the National Lottery Heritage Fund we’re delighted to have secured a sustainable long-term future for the Ironbridge Gorge.”

Pictured: Shaun Davies with Lisa Nandy in Coalbrookdale