Plans to repair historic furnace submitted

The furnace, where Abraham Darby I perfected iron smelting with coke, in 1709, could have its roof and gutters replaced

A Grade I-listed furnace credited with being the birthplace of Telford's Industrial Revolution could be set for a revamp.

The Old Furnace, in Coalbrookdale in the Ironbridge Gorge is recorded as the place where Abraham Darby I perfected iron smelting with coke, in 1709.

If plans are approved the tent-like structure, which was built in 1638, could have its roof and gutters replaced with a "maintenance-free" steel-clad composite panel system.

The furnace's backwall, the Wheelpit and the Snapper Furnace on the site, are all also in need of work.

Oliver Architecture Ltd said the tent required immediate attention and had some areas of loose brickwork that needed to be re-bedded.

It said the back wall of the Old Furnace was in poor condition and the exposed unprotected brickwork area was decaying with evident plant growth.

The original proposal was to redecorate and seal the existing covering according to planning agents, but the costs of doing that have proven almost as costly as a replacement roof.

"The proposed works are essential to preserve the architectural and historical significance of the monument and the listed buildings," the architects said.

It added the work would allow future generations to enjoy the industrial period of Ironbridge Gorge.