UK-based construction company G F Tomlinson has broken ground on the advanced Science & Discovery Centre and Planetarium at Sherwood Observatory in Sutton-in-Ashfield, England.

Works on the Science & Discovery Centre include the construction of a new structure above the reservoir to enhance space while preserving the historical characteristics of the site and transforming the current structure into a functional facility.

As part of the project, a decommissioned underground Victorian reservoir will be turned into a learning centre for school and group tours.

Aside from the planetarium, this new facility will feature an exhibition hall, classrooms, a café, and conference spaces.

The company procured this project via procurement specialist SCAPE.

Construction works at the centre commenced at the end of August this year and are expected to be completed late next year.

The Mansfield and Sutton Astronomical Society, backed by Ashfield District Council, is the client of this project.

The development comes under one of the 16 projects supported by the £62.6m Towns Fund obtained by the council from the national government in 2021.

Tomlinson managing director Chris Flint said: “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.”