The new Centre will be a unique and exciting visitor attraction that will play a key role in presenting these subjects in an exciting and hands-on way to raise awareness of the opportunities a STEM career can unlock.
Plans are for the erection of a new planetarium and science discovery centre, including conversion and use of a subterranean reservoir, external works and landscaping at Sherwood Observatory, Coxmoor Road, Sutton In Ashfield, Nottinghamshire, NG17 5LF
A spokesperson for Sherwood Observatory said:
‘We are pleased to announce that we have submitted a planning application for our Science Discovery Centre and Planetarium.
‘Submitting the planning application marks an important milestone in our project journey. If approved, subject to raising the remaining funds, work can start in the middle of next year with a view to being open and fully operational by our ideal timeframe of late 2024.
‘It will also be a jewel in the crown of the local visitor economy, creating a unique tourist attraction that will be out of this world’.
The scheme aims to turn a disused underground Victorian reservoir on the site next door to our Observatory into a state-of-the-art tourist attraction and education centre.
The reservoir will be repurposed to house a multi-functional exhibition area and teaching spaces while preserving the existing architectural heritage features. A 10m diameter planetarium, accommodating approximately 60 people per show, will sit on the reservoir’s roof.
‘We have already secured support via the Towns Fund programme and we making progress in securing the matched funding to bring the scheme to fruition.
‘However, more support is still needed to turn this exciting vision into reality and we would be particularly interested in talking with businesses in the area about sponsorship opportunities which could be financial contributions, donation of materials, or work in kind.’
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