Ground will be broken on site at Sherwood Observatory later this month as the construction of the new Planetarium and Science Discovery Centre commences. This exciting development is being funded by Ashfield District Council’s £62.6m Towns Fund. As of now, the contracts have been signed, and work is set to begin at the end of August, with a projected completion date in late 2024.
The vision for this site is ambitious, aiming to create a unique and world-class facility that will rival similar establishments across the UK. Located on Coxmoor Road, Sherwood Observatory sits alongside a Victorian subterranean reservoir that will be thoughtfully transformed into an education and exhibition space. The reservoir’s charming original features, including intricate brick arches, will be preserved, honoring the building’s historical significance.
Positioned atop the reservoir, the Planetarium will provide visitors with an immersive and enveloping experience, enabling them to explore the wonders of space. Mansfield and Sutton Astronomical Society (MSAS), the owners and operators of the observatory, already conduct outreach programs with local schools and organize group visits, public open events, and night schools. The new building will facilitate the expansion of these valuable initiatives, benefiting Ashfield and beyond.
By having a cutting-edge facility in Ashfield, individuals, schools, clubs, groups, and businesses will all reap the benefits. The center will broaden horizons, educate, inspire, and contribute to the region’s visitor economy.
In January 2023, it was announced that the project had been awarded £3.1m from the government’s Levelling Up Fund. Since then, MSAS has diligently worked to secure matching funds and has received generous contributions totaling £850,000 from The Garfield Weston Foundation, Foyle Foundation, Wolfson Foundation, and National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Cllr Matthew Relf, Executive Lead Member for Planning and Regeneration, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating that the observatory already is a valuable asset to the District, but with the new center and planetarium, it will become world-class. He emphasized the significance of having a purpose-built science facility locally, providing children and adults who may not be able to travel to major cities with the opportunity to experience the wonders of space in their own community.
This project is just one of the 16 initiatives financed by our Towns Fund, which aims to transform the District, drive regeneration across our towns, and give Ashfield a new identity. The ultimate goal is to establish Ashfield as a place renowned for innovation, somewhere its residents take pride in, and others are eager to visit. The Planetarium and Science Discovery Centre will undoubtedly put us on the map.
Steve Wallace, the Planetarium Project Manager, emphasized Sherwood Observatory’s dedication to bridging the opportunity gap within the community. They envision achieving this through an ambitious outreach program that utilizes astronomy to inspire people of all ages to develop an interest in STEM subjects and careers, especially disadvantaged young residents. The program will offer extracurricular activities and a world-class visitor attraction.
Recognizing that this project has the potential to inspire the next generation of employees and entrepreneurs, more businesses are encouraged to get involved. The project team has created a pledge list for those who share our vision. Please reach out and add your name to this outstanding initiative.
