Plans for planetarium at Sherwood Observatory move a step closer

The team at Sherwood Observatory, located in Sutton-in-Ashfield, Nottinghamshire, has secured support via the Towns Fund programme for a scheme that aims to inspire interest in STEM learning and careers.

A local contractor, Robert Woodhead Limited, has now been appointed to carry out the building work to the site. A planning application will be submitted in early 2022, with work on the development due to start later next year. The project has been accelerated through SCAPE Construction | Beyond the Public Sector, a direct award framework designed to drive collaboration, efficiency, time and cost savings.

The project aims to turn a disused underground Victorian reservoir on the site of the Sherwood 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.

The striking designs have been drawn up by Nottinghamshire Architects, Player Roberts Bell. HSP Consulting Engineers, based in Eastwood, will form part of the experienced design team.

A 10m diameter planetarium, accommodating approximately 60 people per show, will sit on the reservoir’s roof. The planetarium is being designed though a partnership of RSA Cosmos and ST Engineering Antycip, global leaders in digital planetariums and visual displays. The area around the planetarium will serve as a viewing platform for portable telescopes.

It is set to become one of just a handful of UK destinations to combine a planetarium with an observatory - and has the potential to attract at least 20,000 visitors a year to support the local visitor economy.

The plans were presented to an audience of business and community leaders at the head office of local business Total Integrated Solutions on the 24^th of November, along with a call for more local businesses to back the project and provide the outstanding funding required to bring it to fruition.

It is hoped that the education and outreach activities it carries out will help create a pipeline of talented young people interested in STEM, which will support prosperity in the area and develop the skills needed by local businesses.

To progress the project further, it needs to secure a further £3 million of matched funding. If funding is confirmed, the site could open in early 2024.

Procured using the SCAPE Construction framework for beyond the public sector, Sherwood Observatory can benefit from a responsible procurement solution that reflects the project aspirations of delivering value for money and high social value, including creating a pipeline of future STEM pioneers.

Working closely SCAPE’s team of experts, Sherwood Observatory received guidance through the available procurement options, contractor selection, the NEC process and business case support. Learn more about how beyond the public sector can help you with your project aspirations here.