Glasgow Science Centre (GSC) will undergo a £5.5m upgrade to become greener, cleaner, and brighter.
The package, funded by Scottish Enterprise, will improve the roof, windows and building management system to make the centre more energy efficient, weatherproof, and sustainable.
The external works to the roof will get underway this month (June) and the walkway around the centre and Canting Basin will be closed to the public until late spring 2022 when works are expected to be completed. They will be visible to visitors but will not impact on the interactive science experience in the venue.
Due to excessive and prolonged heat build-up at certain times over the last 20 years, the venue’s roof has seen its existing waterproof membrane gradually melt away which resulted in black tar staining its titanium shingle roof. The works will involve replacing the current shingles with new stainless-steel shingles, new insulation and a more heat resistant waterproof membrane. The roof will retain its iconic look but will be more robust in dealing with the ever-changing Glasgow climate.
Dr Stephen Breslin, chief executive of Glasgow Science Centre said: “Glasgow Science Centre is an iconic landmark for the city. The new roof design and the planned improvements to the windows and building management system will make the building more energy efficient and environmentally sustainable for years to come.
In the lead up to Glasgow hosting COP26, we want to lead by example in tackling climate change and are working towards achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2030.”
Craig Scottish Enterprise, team leader within the Place team at Scottish Enterprise said: “Glasgow Science Centre is one of Scotland’s highest profile visitor centres and a significant educational resource for our young people, welcoming around 400,000 visitors every year. That’s a huge contribution to promoting Scotland as a science nation and is particularly important with the centre’s strong focus on the climate change agenda.
“These upgrades to GSC align closely with Scottish Enterprise’s Strategic Framework, with low carbon projects, inclusive growth and placemaking all priorities in helping make Scotland an attractive place to do business. And GSC will play a key role in demonstrating Scotland’s ability to deliver innovative solutions to the climate crisis to help facilitate a green recovery, post-Covid.
“Investing in this asset is an investment in the future. It will not only ensure the long-term viability of the centre but will continue to inspire an interest in science in our young people with the resulting benefits to the future prosperity of Scotland.”
