First Light Project
University of Manchester
Project description
A new £20.5m Discovery Centre to promote the historical importance of the scientific work undertaken at the iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site Jodrell Bank site in Cheshire.
One of two projects Buro Four have been involved in at the Jodrell Bank site; the project is all about connecting the widest range of people with the heritage of science and innovation, providing opportunities for people to become more involved in Jodrell Bank through education, group activities, volunteering and engagement.
The new gallery incorporates a spectacular exhibition and immersive auditorium within a grass-covered dome, constructed to mimic the size and form of the 76.2m diameter dish of the nearby Lovell Telescope – one of the world’s largest and most powerful radio telescopes. This was an incredibly complex project given the nature of the project and the many and varied stakeholders as well as the complexities of delivering a project within a live science environment and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
‘First Light’ was supported by an offer of £12.5m from the National Lottery Heritage Fund and £4m from the government, with generous support from the Garfield Weston Foundation, the Wolfson Foundation, the Denise Coates Foundation, University of Manchester Alumni and the Stavros Niarchos Foundation. The project was awarded with a 2023 Civic Trust Award.
Fun Fact: The construction of the dome was the first of it’s kind for over 25 years and involved a continuous concrete pour taking over 10 hours, with 59 operatives and 55 wagons of concrete.
“A wonderful project ambitiously created and beautifully delivered. It manages to complement the mighty and instantly recognisable landmark of the Lovell Telescope and offer a scientific experience accessible to all.”
