One of the most spectacular testaments to the Industrial revolution - the world's first iron bridge and a World Heritage Site - has been protected in law by being registered with Land Registry.

The official ownership of the Iron Bridge is now safeguarded by the state following the registration of the site by Telford & Wrekin Council.

It was here, over the dramatic gorge of the River Severn, that in 1779, Abraham Darby built the Iron Bridge.

Darby perfected the secret of smelting iron with cheap and plentiful coke, instead of expensive and less efficient charcoal.

Martin Kirby, regional Development Manager at Land Registry, said: "The Iron Bridge has stood as a testament to the brilliance of ironmaster Abraham Darby for 229 years and we are delighted that this site of world class significance is now being protected in law by land registration which removes the possibility of any doubt around ownership.

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"By registering land, owners have title to their land underpinned by the state. It means owners can manage their land more effectively both now and in the longer term, they can consolidate complex legal information or historical data and protect their land against encroachment."

Mayor of Telford & Wrekin, Cllr Bob Groom, also commented: "With the help of the Land Registry, we have recorded for prosperity the boundaries of the Iron Bridge and its abutments. Telford & Wrekin Council, as owners of the Bridge, and English Heritage, as guardians of the Bridge, will continue to work together closely to secure the long term future of this iconic structure, together with and for the people of Telford and Wrekin and future generations."

Land Registry offers 25% discount for voluntary land registration. For more information call: 0800 432 0432 or visit the website on: www.landregistry.gov.uk.

(JM)