Techniquest has plans for £5.7m transformation
TECHNIQUEST has submitted a planning application for its £5.7m Science Capital project, which will significantly transform and expand the science discovery centre in Cardiff Bay.
Subject to planning permission, it is anticipated that work on the extension will start next spring, with the new space being open to the public by the summer of 2020.
The charity status organisation is seeking to extend the educational charity’s current building on Stuart Street to create an additional 900 square metres of exhibition floor space.
The scheme, designed by architecture practice HLM, will significantly increase Techniquest’s footprint providing an additional 60% exhibition space to house new innovative content related to, and developed with, Welsh STEM innovators, academics and communities.
The new immersive and innovative exhibition areas and experiences will help Techniquest to diversify its audiences and increase visitor numbers by at least 40%.
Its chief executive, Lesley Kirkpatrick, said: “Since securing funding, it has been full steam ahead in our Science Capital project.
“We’ve been working closely with our consultants to marry up our objectives, with the space we have available, and our ultimate goal of ensuring the charity has a sustainable and long-term future in Wales.
“We’re delighted with the final plans, which are contemporary, inclusive, flexible and eye-catching. Gaining planning consent is naturally a crucial factor in the future of this project so we’re hopeful for a positive result.”
Patrick Arends, leisure and culture sector lead at HLM said: “Techniquest has been providing inspiring scientific education for over 30 years and the new extension will reflect this with a contemporary design that will showcase this unique and much-loved facility in Cardiff.
“The Cardiff HLM studio has been working closely with the project team, drawing on its extensive experience in designing top class educational and leisure spaces, to create a vibrant space that is flexible, active and relevant.”
The scheme is being project managed by Lee Wakemans who are working alongside HLM (architects), Hydrock (project engineers) and Wardell Armstrong (planning consultant).