In June 2018, the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) announced Jodrell Bank in Cheshire had been awarded £16.1 million towards a spectacular new discovery centre. 

The ‘First Light at Jodrell Bank’ project will create a new gallery building to promote and celebrate the observatory’s world-leading place in astronomy and its pioneering role in British scientific and cultural history.

In preparation for the HLF bid, Morris Hargreaves McIntyre (MHM) conducted detailed research into Jodrell Bank’s existing and potential markets. MHM also provided the audience development plan that supported the funding application.   

Jodrell Bank Observatory, which is part of The University of Manchester, was founded in 1945. It is the earliest radio astronomy observatory in the world still in existence and was a pioneer of the new science of radio astronomy, which revolutionised our understanding of the universe. 

In recognition of the international significance of its science heritage, Jodrell Bank was nominated by DCMS for UNESCO World Heritage Site inscription in January 2018. 

The University of Manchester described the purpose of the new centre as: “At its core the First Light Project is all about connecting the widest range of people with the heritage of science and innovation, and will provide opportunities for people to become more involved in Jodrell Bank through education, group activities, volunteering and engagement. 

“The project will provide a place of inspiration for young people and their families, showcasing not only the emergence of the new science of radio astronomy, but also the stories of resilience, determination, cooperation and the entrepreneurial spirit that brought it into being.”