Ashfield District Council has approved plans to extend and transform Sherwood Observatory in Sutton.

Mansfield and Sutton Astronomical Society have developed plans for Sherwood Observatory which will see a planetarium and educational centre join the observatory as part of the £62.6 million Towns Fund Deal for Ashfield. The plans were given a huge boost in January with confirmation of £3.1million secured for the project from the Levelling Up Fund.

The proposal will see the construction of a new planetarium built on top of the existing Victorian subterranean reservoir which will be transformed into an exhibition hall, classrooms, and meeting/conference rooms. The planetarium will be open for pre-booked visits, scheduled events and educational visits.

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The plans for the observatory will create a unique experience that will draw visitors from across the East Midlands, and beyond, to Ashfield.

Work will start on site later this year with completion expected in 2024.

Cllr Matthew Relf, Executive Lead Member for Regeneration and Corporate Transformation said: "This is one of the most exciting projects for Ashfield, out of the 20 planned projects; the planetarium will enhance our local educational facilities and will surely inspire the next generation to pursue careers in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics). The observatory is an exceptional asset not just for Ashfield, but the wider area."