Blaenavon celebrates 25 years of World Heritage Site status

A free concert will be held later this month to mark Blaenavon's 25th anniversary as a UNESCO World Heritage site. 

The event at Blaenavon Workmen's Hall, on Friday March 20, will include performances by Blaenavon Male Voice Choir, Blaenavon Town Band, Adhoc Theatre Company, the World Heritage Youth Ambassadors and local school children.  

Around 300 tickets are available on a first come first serve basis. Click below to book tickets. 

The Blaenavon Industrial Landscape became a World Heritage Site in December 2000 in recognition of its well-preserved 19th century iron-making and coal mining landscape which includes the town of Blaenavon. 

Since then it's attracted hundreds of thousands of visitors and more than £50 million investment.

Cllr Joanne Gauden, Executive Member for Economy, Skills and Regeneration, said: "Blaenavon's UNESCO status transformed the area - putting it on the world stage alongside other breath-taking sites like the Galapagos Islands and the Taj Mahal.

"The concert will include memories of those instrumental in getting the area official recognised and a celebration of the impact it's had on the town's culture during that time. 

"We hope as many local residents will join us in celebrating such an important milestone in the town's history."

The Blaenavon Industrial Landscape World Heritage Site includes Blaenavon Ironworks, Big Pit National Coal Museum and the wider industrial landscape. 

In December, Blaenavon Town Council and Blaenavon Heritage VC Primary School marked the 25th anniversary by creating a time capsule celebrating life in Blaenavon today. 

The Blaenavon Industrial Landscape World Heritage Site 25th anniversary concert is funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. 

For more information on Blaenavon's industrial history, head to the Visit Blaenavon website.