A £6.8 million state-of-the-art Sherwood Observatory Planetarium & Science Centre in Sutton-in-Ashfield has opened its doors to the public.

The project, delivered by G F Tomlinson through SCAPE, involved the transformation of a disused Victorian reservoir into a modern visitor attraction and education centre. The facility features an exhibition hall, meeting room, café, and a cutting-edge planetarium.

G F Tomlinson prioritised community engagement during construction, delivering educational initiatives, work experience placements, and apprenticeships. The contractor also supported local businesses by sourcing materials and labor from within a 20-mile radius.

The new observatory aims to inspire interest in STEM subjects and attract more visitors to the area.

Adrian Grocock, Group Managing Director of G F Tomlinson, said: "We are delighted to have completed works to this unique and significant Nottinghamshire landmark scheme – providing a world-class immersive facility for all ages in the heart of the Midlands. The Sherwood Observatory will inspire and entertain visitors, and for many years to come they will enjoy the learnings that come with understanding the wonder and science of space.

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"We’ve wholeheartedly enjoyed working alongside the Sherwood Observatory team, Ashfield District Council and other stakeholders who helped in bringing this incredible project to life."

Dr Steve Wallace, Chair of Sherwood Observatory and client project manager said "Right from the initial vision, this project has been about collaboration and teamwork. The new Planetarium & Science Centre has exceeded expectations and the excitement that has been generated in the area as it has taken shape has been tangible.  We are really pleased to open our doors to visitors and show them the wonders of the universe."

Mark Robinson, Group Chief Executive at SCAPE said: "The Sherwood Observatory planetarium has been an excellent project to be a part of. Procured via the SCAPE Venture framework, we worked closely with our partner, G F Tomlinson to support greater efficiency, deliver cost savings and help embed social values initiatives.

"Now open, the planetarium provides a one-of-a-kind attraction not only for the local community but for visitors from further afield. We are looking forward to seeing the next generation of scientists and astronomers that the planetarium inspires."

Cllr Jason Zadrozny, Leader of Ashfield District Council, said: "It really is spectacular, and it is something that will transform the lives of not just the people of Ashfield but also further afield.

"It has been incredible to see the building through the various stages of construction and to see the vision really come to life. I am proud to have been some small part of the process.

"The immersive shows really are incredible and I would encourage everyone to make sure they experience the Planetarium and all that it has to offer. This is something so unique and will see more visitors coming to Ashfield as they are transported through space.

"It truly is an educational experience like no other and hopefully will see more young people develop an interest in learning more about space."

One of 16 projects being funded by the £62.6million Towns Deal which was secured by the council from the Government in 2021, the project benefitted from Levelling Up funding and grants from the Wolfson Foundation, Garfield Weston Foundation, Foyle Foundation and National Lottery Heritage Fund.  Solar panels at the scheme were sponsored by Mansfield Building Society and the Changing Places toilet by East Midlands Rail