Nearly £5m pledged to Aberdeen Science Centre renovation

Plans to upgrade Aberdeen’s Science Centre have taken a leap forward after nearly £5m of funding was pledged.

£4.7 million is being donated from a number of sources, including the UK Government, Opportunity North East and Aberdeen City Council.

The “radical transformation” is expected to be completed by Autumn 2019.

Liz Hodge, Aberdeen Science Centre chief executive, said: “This funding is a vital boost for North Scotland.

“This funding will almost double the size of the centre and play a pivotal role in creating a new, exciting and stimulating environment enabling our team to significantly increase the reach of STEM related education programmes, exhibits, events, clubs and activities.

“While the next generation are a priority audience for the centre, our aim is to engage everyone in science and inspire people of all ages, backgrounds and interests to get excited about the fascinating world of STEM.”

Aberdeen City Council has pledged up to £1 million for the centre.

Co-leader Douglas Lumsden said: “The funding represents a significant commitment from the council to the long term plans for the Aberdeen Science Centre and we are proud to be providing this support and playing our part.

“Aberdeen’s young people are the lifeblood of the city and facilities such as the Aberdeen Science Centre play a valuable role in encouraging the next generation to embrace STEM in an engaging and stimulating environment.

“The centre also attracts visitors from near and far, a well-established part of a growing list of attractions and one which attracts tens of thousands of people each year.