Founded in 1792 by famed industrialist John 'Iron Mad' Wilkinson, Brymbo works was a key part of Welsh industry for nearly 200 years. When it ceased production in 1990 the local community was devastated with the loss of 1,125 jobs and the site was left largely abandoned.
Now, with the help of our £8.3million funding, Brymbo is welcoming people back through its doors and creating new opportunities to work, learn and play.
The site’s repurposed machine shop provides community facilities and spaces for small businesses including:
- a visitor centre
- an art gallery
- a shop and coffeeshop
- rentable offices and workshops
- a flexible space for meetings and educational activities
Expected to attract up to 37,000 visitors per year, Stori Brymbo shares the heritage of the site and its role in shaping the local area.
Historic structures including the Grade II* listed Agent’s House, the Blast Colliery and the Foundry have been restored for future generations alongside a 300-million-year-old "fossil forest".
The internationally important collection of fossilised trees was discovered on the site 2003. Now it’s being carefully excavated and preserved. Volunteering opportunities and live public digs are giving people the chance to gain valuable new skills and get involved in Brymbo’s next chapter.
Andrew White, Director for Wales at the National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: "Stori Brymbo demonstrates the power of community-led regeneration: a place where local stories, shared pride and an ambitious vision come together to create lasting benefits for local people and visitors alike.”
