Liz Lynne backs fight to save foundry

12.00.00am GMT Fri 3rd Feb 2006

Liz Lynne, Liberal Democrat MEP for the West Midlands, today added her voice to the campaign to save a historic Black Country landmark.

The Foster, Rastrick Foundry, on Lowndes Road in Wollaston, is where the first United States' first locomotive, the Stourbridge Lion, was built. A grade II listed building, it was a working foundry from 1821 to 2004, and is thought to be the longest-running foundry in Europe.

However, the building is now vacant and has been vandalised. Birmingham-based property developer Revelan, which owns the site, is currently considering redevelopment.

Liz Lynne today visited the foundry, and met members of a local action group working to save the site. Commenting on the foundry, Liz said "This is a magnificent and historic building, in a sad state of disrepair."

"I am delighted to support the campaign to save this site. We must ensure that a new use is found for this building so that is preserved for future generations."