New lighting at Iron Bridge is ‘crucial’ - claim

Nicola Lowery, ward member for the Ironbridge Gorge, said the current lighting scheme was not fit for purpose, and that new lighting would enhance the structure.

Her comments come after plans for 30 new floodlights around the bridge were revealed.

The Iron Bridge will be lit with warm white LEDs during the week, and at weekends will be turned a fiery “furnace” colour if newly submitted plans are given the go-ahead.

The project was temporarily delayed because of worries over tall poles from which the floodlights will hang.

But designer LPA Lighting said the old lighting needed to be replaced.

Councillor Lowery said: “The current lighting is not fit for purpose and is in great need of upgrading to ensure we have a lighting scheme which enhances the beautiful structure of the Iron Bridge in the evenings.

Expertise

“LPA have a lot of experience in specialist lighting solutions and in our briefings have really demonstrated their passion and expertise for this project.

“There has been a delay to the project due to concerns raised on the design of the lighting columns by local stakeholders and their impact. This is being addressed and the next stage will involve the design of the new lighting being submitted for planning and I look forward to us hopefully being able to construct the project next year.

"Pedestrian lighting for the deck of the Iron Bridge is also being drawn up.” Councillor Lowery said the red furnace lighting would be a fitting tribute to the area’s industrial past.

“The Iron Bridge is one of our most important monuments in the region, therefore it is crucial we deliver a lighting scheme befitting it’s stature that enhances the unique and intricate structure at night,” she said.

“The furnace lighting scheme I feel is greatly befitting given the Ironbridge Gorge’s industrial heritage as the birthplace of industry as it will pay homage to the blazing blast furnaces that were once ignited in the heart of Coalbrookdale Foundry.”