Online Lecture - Project Iron Bridge- Saving an Industrial Icon

Online Lecture - Project Iron Bridge- Saving an Industrial Icon

Pre-recorded lecture held in collaboration with Europa Nostra UK and English Heritage

Date: 
22/07/2020 - 31/07/2020
Audience: 
Introductory CPD, General interest
Price: 

Free for all members and non-members.

Event details

Available to view until 31/07/20

Free pre-recorded online lecture via Crowdcast in collaboration with Europa Nostra UK and English Heritage.

View this free online webinar to hear about the recent Europa Nostra Awards/European Heritage Award winning conservation project led by English Heritage

The Iron Bridge is the world's first bridge constructed of iron, and a symbol of the Industrial Revolution. Since its completion in 1779 it has faced many challenges, with stresses in the ironwork dating from the original construction compounded by ground movement in the Ironbridge Gorge, and a 19th century earthquake. The bridge was in full use for over 150 years, by ever-increasing traffic, before being designated an Ancient Monument and closed to vehicles in 1934. After surveys highlighted cracks and damage suffered over the centuries, English Heritage embarked on the largest conservation project in its history, preserving the Iron Bridge for the future.

Sneska Quaedvlieg-Mihailovic begins the event, introducing Europa Nostra, the European Voice of Civil Society committed to Cultural Heritage. Sara Crofts, Chair of Europa Nostra UK, then introduces the Europa Nostra Awards/European Heritage Awards, giving a brief introduction to the awards programme and how to apply for the 2021 awards. We will then hear from Head Collections Curator at English Heritage Matt Thompson who will speak about the history of the structure, the conservation work undertaken and the future of the industrial icon, finishing the lecture with a Q&A session. 

This event was hosted by the SPAB, Europa Nostra UK and English Heritage.  

About the speaker: 

Matt Thompson is the Head Collections Curator at English Heritage, a charity that cares for more than 400 historic sites in England and a large collection of associated objects. Matt’s previous role was as Director of Collections and Learning at the Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust. He has a particular interest in the early years of the Industrial Revolution in Britain and is particularly fascinated by the representations of industry in art and literature.

Booking Terms & Conditions

IT requirements: Please note that this is an online lecture and will be held via a webinar platform called CrowdCast. You will be sent instructions on how to join the lecture when you book. To participate, all you need is an internet connection, and a laptop, computer or phone with the ability to play video and audio. On android mobiles/tablets, sessions can be accessed via either Chrome for Android or Firefox for Android. Apple mobile/tablet users will need to download the CrowdCast app.

If you'd like to test your internet speed meets requirements before booking, please use this page on the CrowdCast website.

Accessibility: please contact the SPAB before booking to discuss any special access requirements.

Getting here