Community Involvement

The Trust recognises the importance of working closely with the community to ensure the success of the proposal. The Trust has consulted widely with key stake holders, gaining cross party and cross authority support and consensus in the discussions held with representatives from e-on/Uniper (owners of the power station site), local Councillors and MPs, the Chair of the Marches Local Enterprise Partnership and senior planning, environmental and transportation officers from Shropshire Council and Telford & Wrekin Council. This has been undertaken, either collectively or at smaller meetings with individuals over the last few years, receiving widespread support in principle. All were suitable impressed and acknowledged that the proposals would make a significant contribution towards improving the socio-economic needs of community.

The inclusion, within our suggested redevelopment concept for the power station, of residential (to assist in addressing future housing needs), leisure retail, the creation of a Research and Development Technology Park, together with hotels, a park & ride railway station and rail connection through the World Heritage Gorge was well received. Buildwas, sited at the south end of the Ironbridge by-pass, would therefore become a substantial destination, helping to enhance the existing but separately situated village, whilst also helping to sustain the financial future of Ironbridge, Broseley, and the surrounding centres. Rail access is considered to be a key element towards the success of the proposal, as representatives of both the Councils’ and the Tourist Board are keen to enhance non-intrusive access to Ironbridge and the Severn Valley as a leading tourist attraction.

 

The old Toll House on the Iron Bridge.

Ironbridge A power station.

The Wood bridge at Coalport 4th January 2009.