Management Plan Review
The Ironbridge Gorge World Heritage Site Management Plan must be reviewed every 10 years in line with UNESCO’s Operational Guidelines, which are periodically updated to guide the ongoing protection and management of World Heritage properties. Historic England’s 2025 guidance confirms that all UK World Heritage Sites require an up‑to‑date management plan, typically with a lifespan of 5–10 years, to articulate Outstanding Universal Value, set out protection systems, and establish an action plan for future stewardship. As our current plan (2017–2027) approaches its end, we are beginning the review process to create a new plan that aligns with both international and national expectations. Visit the UNESCO Word Heritage Convention website for more information about the operational guidelines. Visit the Historic England website for more information on the guidance on the Production of World Heritage Property Management Plans.
Over the past decade, stakeholders across the Gorge have delivered significant conservation work, including the protection of vulnerable heritage assets and stabilisation of high‑risk areas. This has been complemented by public‑realm improvements, enhancements to flood‑resilience infrastructure, and the introduction of the Park and Ride service. Together, these efforts have strengthened the Site’s ability to respond to challenges such as reduced visitor numbers following COVID‑19. The next management plan will build on this progress and be shaped through meaningful engagement with the local community, ensuring that future objectives reflect community needs and support a thriving, sustainable World Heritage Site.
The Management Plan Review
To create the new 2027–2037 Management Plan, we are beginning a structured review process involving partners, stakeholders, and the local community. The review will follow expectations set out in Historic England’s guidance for producing World Heritage management plans, which outlines the need for clear governance, stakeholder engagement, updated evidence, and a public consultation stage. It will also reflect the requirements of UNESCO’s Operational Guidelines, which emphasise effective protection, community involvement, and alignment with Outstanding Universal Value (OUV). Visit the Historic England website for more information on the guidance on the Production of World Heritage Property Management Plans. Visit the UNESCO Word Heritage Convention website for more information about the operational guidelines.
Over the coming months, we will assess progress made under the current plan, identify emerging challenges and opportunities, and gather the views of people who live, work, and visit the Gorge. This will include meetings with partner organisations, targeted workshops, and opportunities for the public to share ideas and feedback online and in person. All contributions will help shape a shared set of priorities for the next decade, ensuring the new Management Plan supports local needs while safeguarding the World Heritage Site for future generations.
How to Get Involved
Creating the next Ironbridge Gorge World Heritage Site Management Plan is a collaborative effort, and we want to make sure the voices of those who live, work, volunteer, and visit the Gorge shape its future. Throughout 2026, there will be several opportunities to share your views, take part in conversations, and help set priorities for the next decade.
This approach reflects best practice from Historic England’s guidance on World Heritage management plans, which highlights the importance of strong stakeholder engagement and public consultation, as well as UNESCO’s Operational Guidelines, which emphasise community involvement in heritage protection and management. Visit the Historic England website for more information on the guidance on the Production of World Heritage Property Management Plans. Visit the UNESCO Word Heritage Convention website for more information about the operational guidelines.
Timeline: Ways to Take Part in 2026
Stage 1 — Early Engagement & Evidence Gathering (February–March 2026)
Everyone connected to the World Heritage Site will be invited to share their experiences through:
- an online survey for residents, workers, volunteers, and visitors
- face‑to‑face consultations with a wide range of community groups
- input from town and parish councils and local cabinet members
- discussions with local and national stakeholder organisations
This stage builds the foundation for the new plan by gathering a wide range of views, concerns, and ideas.
Stage 2 — Developing the Draft Objectives (April–May 2026)
A dedicated focus group of stakeholder representatives with in‑depth local knowledge will help shape the draft objectives. Their role is to ensure the plan truly reflects the evidence gathered and the priorities expressed by the community.
Additional targeted information gathering may also take place if needed.
Stage 3 — Public Consultation on the Draft Plan (June–July 2026)
Once the draft Management Plan is complete, it will be published for everyone to review and comment on. Feedback can be provided through public events, online consultation forms, and written responses.
Alongside this, technical consultations will be carried out with Historic England and ICOMOS‑UK, who advise UNESCO on the management of World Heritage Sites.
Stage 4 — Final Approval and Adoption (By December 2026)
The final Management Plan will be updated following public and technical feedback and then formally adopted by the relevant local authorities. It will also be submitted to UNESCO in line with their monitoring and reporting expectations to ensure the Site continues to comply with the Operational Guidelines. Visit the UNESCO Word Heritage Convention website for more information about the operational guidelines.
Once adopted, the focus will move to delivering the plan’s objectives, with partners and community groups working together to prioritise actions, secure resources, and begin implementing the projects that will shape the next decade of the World Heritage Site’s care and development.
