G F Tomlinson has commenced construction works on a state-of-the-art Science & Discovery Centre and Planetarium at Sherwood Observatory in Sutton-in-Ashfield.

Procured through SCAPE, one the UK’s leading procurement specialists, works on the centre began at the end of August and are due for completion autumn 2024.

By using SCAPE Construction, a direct award framework designed to drive collaboration, efficiency, time and cost savings, the client, Mansfield & Sutton Astronomical Society supported by Ashfield District Council, has accelerated the delivery of the scheme through early contractor involvement with G F Tomlinson.

The scheme involves the transformation of a disused underground Victorian reservoir into an education centre for school and group visits. The development will breathe new life into the historic building, which will feature an exhibition hall, classrooms, a café, and meeting rooms, as well as a state-of-the-art planetarium.

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The facility aims to inspire interest and careers in STEM learning with a wraparound experience, as well as an aspiration to increase annual footfall to the location from 3,000 up to 20,000.

Works for the Science & Discovery centre include building a new structure above the reservoir to increase the useable space, keeping original and historical features such as intricate brick arches, while evolving the existing structure into a unique and functional building.

The construction of the Planetarium and Science Discovery Centre at Sherwood Observatory is one of the 16 projects being funded by the £62.6million Towns Deal which was secured by the Council from the Government in 2021. This project is also benefiting from Levelling Up funding and grants from the Wolfson Foundation, Garfield Weston Foundation, Foyle Foundation and National Lottery Heritage Fund. The scheme will also include solar panels, which are sponsored by Mansfield Building Society.

Chris Flint, Managing Director at G F Tomlinson, said: "This incredible facility will provide an immersive and unique visitor experience for all ages in the heart of the Midlands, and G F Tomlinson is proud to be delivering it alongside Mansfield and Sutton Astronomical Society and other key stakeholders including Ashfield District Council.

"The Planetarium and Science Discovery Centre will play a key part in inspiring young people on both the wonder and science of space, and along with the increase in footfall of visitors to the new facility, will be a place of learning and enjoyment for many years to come."