Farrer & Co advises Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust on landmark merger with the National Trust

Leading independent law firm Farrer & Co recently advised Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust (IGMT) on its merger with the National Trust, helping to secure the long-term future of one of the UK’s most significant industrial heritage sites and collections.

IGMT is one of the UK’s largest independent museums. Its assets include ten museums and 35 listed buildings, scheduled monuments and designated collections within the Ironbridge Gorge UNESCO World Heritage Site, widely recognised as the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution.

The project has involved the transfer of IGMT’s assets, valued at approximately £49 million, to the National Trust, supported by a £9 million government grant.

James Maloney, charity partner at Farrer & Co, said:

“This was a hugely significant and complex project involving the stewardship of internationally important heritage assets. We were delighted to support Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust in securing a sustainable long-term future for the site and its collections through this landmark transaction with the National Trust.”

The matter reflects Farrer & Co’s longstanding expertise in advising charities, including cultural institutions and heritage organisations, on complex governance, restructuring and strategic projects.

The Farrer & Co team was led by charity partner James Maloney alongside Sara van der Pas (Counsel) and Verity Collins (Associate), with support from Charities colleagues and a multidisciplinary team across Commercial Real Estate, Property Litigation, Construction, Employment, Insolvency, Commercial & IP, Corporate, Banking and Tax.

© Farrer & Co LLP, June 2026