Collapse-fears prompt plans to demolish foundry

The Aga Rayburn foundry works closed in 2017, after more than three centuries of industrial works.

Fears an industrial foundry that operated for three centuries might collapse have prompted plans for its demolition.

Shropshire Homes has submitted plans to demolish buildings at the derelict former AGA Rayburn foundry works in Coalbrookdale.

The application, submitted to Telford and Wrekin Council, said structures on the site are in danger of collapse, and wind gusts could carry sheeting and loose debris, posing a risk to the public.

Last month, a scheme for 101 homes on the site was approved by the authority, but the decision is set to go to the planning inspectorate for a final decision.

The foundry closed in 2017, after more than 300 years of operations on the site.

A report by structural consultants, CoxBaker, recommended all industrial buildings on the site should be demolished down to ground floor slab-level.

Shropshire Homes also raised concerns it is difficult to keep intruders out of the site. with decaying structures posing a danger to surveyors and visitors.

"Although vacant, the site requires periodic access for security purposes and for visitors accessing the site to carry out survey works and investigations," the firm said.

"The site also attracts various unwanted visitors for nefarious purposes including theft and ‘urban exploration'.

"The level of security to fully protect the site would require the type of installation and resources usually reserved for military or detention sites, and is therefore inappropriate."

A decision on the demolition plans will be made by the council at a later date.

This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service which covers councils and other public service organisations.