New investment brings Dundee Science Centre expansion one step closer

Dundee Science Centre has secured over £1 million of the funds required for its ambitious expansion plans.

The centre, which began life 15 years ago this month as a Millennium Commission project, is a leading Scottish visitor attraction as well an established centre of excellence in science learning with a culture of curiosity, confidence and engagement with science.

One of Scotland’s four science centres, Dundee Science Centre is an independent charity and first opened its doors in July 2000 welcoming visitors to an immersive and exciting, hands-on exhibition experience.

Since then, the Centre has evolved into a learning centre, social venue, festivals’ hub and recognised contributor to formal education. Looking ahead, £1.1 million of funding has now been secured to drive a major £1.7 million expansion within the Centre, focusing on medical technologies.

Some of the most exciting scientific advances being pioneered in Dundee are to be brought to life as part of the plans.

The Wellcome Trust has awarded £850,000 towards the proposals which will focus on its two prime audiences – visitors and learners. Complementing a fantastic new exhibition, focusing on non-invasive medical technologies, will be state-of-the-art learning facilities, including a lecture theatre and live links to Ninewells Hospital clinicians.

Linda Leuchars, acting CEO said: “Dundee Science Centre is here to help families learn together, to support the formal school curriculum, advance the science communication profession, bring together science and all sectors of the public, including ‘hard-to-reach’ communities.

“Reaching the £1 million mark allows the Science Centre to progress the next four month stage which will see refinements in design from the original concept stage and finalising all specifications and drawings in preparation for achieving the necessary Building Warrant. This will then lead into the next four month stage focusing on appointing contractors, exhibition design and construction. The project is due for completion at the end of 2016, dependent on securing the further £550,000 through our ongoing fundraising campaign.”