12/02/10 - Seddon Completes Earth and Space Observatory at Keele

 

J & S Seddon Building has completed an extensive refurbishment of Keele University’s historic observatory.

 

The works have transformed the observatory from a centre of scientific research and amateur astronomy, to one which will be by used by a wider range of visitors to increase the public understanding of science.

 

Completed under a 26-week programme, the £360,000 project included the refurbishment of the existing observatory and telescopes, as well as an extension to the lecture room and its teaching and presentation facilities.

 

It also included the creation of disabled access, and the application of specialist waterproofing silver paint on the roof to repair the leaking domes.

 

The original observatory at Keele was built in 1962 and was established to house the historic Grubb telescope, which was built in Oxford in 1873 and used by Einstein on a visit to Oxford.

 

Fundraising officer Robin Cross said: “The Keele Observatory had been showing its age for some time and was in a poor state, with leaking domes, rotting window frames and a lack of disabled access among the many issues it faced.

 

“The refurbishment and re-equipping of the facilities provides an exciting, safe and attractive environment in which organised groups, businesses, schools and educators can enjoy a ‘hands on’ experience into the research activities in the physical sciences, astronomy, earth sciences and the environment.”

 

Alan Nixon, managing director of J & S Seddon Building, which has its headquarters in Fenton, Stoke-on-Trent, said: “The refurbished observatory has transformed the building into a modern, community-focused centre. The project reflects the enormous progress the university has made in recent years.”

 

The Keele Earth and Space Observatory was officially re-opened by Lord Rees of Ludlow, Astronomer Royal and president of the Royal Society.

 

Professor Nye Evans, of Keele’s astrophysics group, said: “The Observatory at Keele has a long tradition of exciting both youngsters and adults from the area.

 

“We anticipate that this exciting new facility will enhance their experience, and continue the strong links we have with the community.”

 

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Notes To Editors

 

About The Earth and Space Observatory at Keele

 

The development has been funded by the Wolfson Foundation, alumni donations to the Keele Key Fund and Keele University.

 

The centre aims to raise people’s awareness of science while continuing its long-standing commitment to teaching and outreach. Visitors will be able to experience practical examples of physical and earth sciences and astronomy, using equipment dating from the 19th century to the present day.

 

 

About Seddon

 

J & S Seddon Building is a Seddon Group Limited company, one of Britain’s major privately owned construction companies, with an annual turnover in excess of £250 million, which employs 1,750 people.

 

Seddon Group is a corporate partner of The Christie, one of Europe's leading cancer centres.

 

J & S Seddon Building contact - Mike Gabriel, Brand Manager - 01782 599511

 

J & S Seddon Building Ltd

P.O. Box 13

55 Duke Street

Fenton

Stoke-on-Trent

ST4 3NN

 

Press release written and issued by Jane Shepherd, Shepherd PR www.shepherd-pr.com

 

01538 308685/308099

 

 jane@shepherd-pr.com