Work to stabilise slipping gorge

Ironbridge Gorge was named a World Heritage Site in 1986

A new phase of work to protect Ironbridge Gorge from land slips is set to go ahead with funding of £1.5m.

Telford and Wrekin Council is providing the money for the World Heritage site in Shropshire and hopes to attract further cash from Europe.

It will help to stabilise the gorge's slopes, limit river bank erosion and fill-in old mine workings.

The first phase of work to stabilise a link road at the Lloyds Head area of Jackfield was completed in autumn.

Council leader Andrew Eade said: "Even if we secure the funding we hope, the latest work will still cover only a small part of the huge investment that is needed to protect the future of the gorge.

"In total around a further £80m will be needed to help secure the gorge - a sum that is way beyond the means of the council."

It is hoped long term investment will come from the government and Advantage West Midlands.