Sherwood Observatory Science Discovery Centre and Planetarium
Sutton in Ashfield
PROJECT STATUS: Due to be completed in 2024
REGENERATION STRAND: More to Discover
ADDRESS: Sherwood Observatory, Coxmoor Road, Sutton in Ashfield, NG17 5LF
A world-class planetarium and education centre, due to be completed in 2024, will transform Sherwood Observatory in Sutton in Ashfield. The modern planetarium will be built on top of the existing Victorian subterranean reservoir that will become an exhibition hall, classrooms, and conference rooms.
Original features of the reservoir, such as intricate brick arches, will be kept to preserve the fascinating history of the building. Mansfield and Sutton Astronomical Society (MSAS) own and run the observatory, and currently have outreach programmes with schools, group visits for adult and children, public open day events, and night schools.
The new building will allow the group to expand this valuable work to Ashfield residents and beyond, so schools, clubs, groups, businesses, and individuals, can all be inspired by the work done there.
The new centre will provide inclusive and innovative community and educational programmes with a focus on promoting astronomy to visitors of all ages and engaging people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) subjects.
The plans received a £3.1 million boost in January 2023 from the government's Levelling Up Fund and are part of the £62.6 million Towns Fund Deal for Ashfield.
Initial works started at the end of August 2023 and the new centre is planned to be completed by late 2024.
