Glasgow Science Centre has joined science and discovery centres from across the UK in calling on the Government to address a major funding gap that is putting some of the country’s most important science education organisations at risk.
Together, the UK’s 28 science and discovery centres welcome more than 5.2 million visitors every year, inspiring young people, supporting STEM education and helping communities engage with science and innovation. Yet despite playing a similar role to museums and galleries, they are currently unable to access many of the capital funding programmes available to other cultural organisations.
Built around 25 years ago with Millennium Commission and National Lottery investment, many of these centres are now facing significant infrastructure challenges. Roofs, glazing, heating systems and other essential services are reaching the end of their lifespan, while operating costs have continued to rise.
The sector estimates that £20 million is needed immediately to prevent serious deterioration across the network, with around £180 million required over the next five years to modernise ageing buildings.
Stephen Breslin, Chief Executive of Glasgow Science Centre and Chair of the Association for Science and Discovery Centres, said the issue affects centres across the UK.
“Across the UK, many science and discovery centres were built around 25 years ago with Millennium Commission and National Lottery investment. Those buildings are now reaching the point where major infrastructure needs significant renewal, just as operating costs have risen sharply.
“At the same time, most centres remain largely ineligible for the capital funding available to museums and comparable cultural organisations.”
For Glasgow Science Centre, the issue goes far beyond maintaining a building. Every year the centre welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors, works with schools from across Scotland and inspires the next generation of scientists, engineers and innovators through interactive experiences, live science shows and learning programmes.
Science and discovery centres collectively engage 37% of UK schools, helping young people develop skills in science, technology, engineering and maths while supporting the future workforce.
Stephen Breslin added: “Science centres sit at the intersection of education, culture and regional growth. We want to work with Government to develop a sustainable funding model that protects these nationally important assets for future generations.”
The sector is not seeking special treatment, but equal access to the infrastructure funding already available to comparable organisations.
Without action, science centres warn that the growing funding gap could place some organisations at risk over the coming months, threatening a vital part of the UK’s science education and innovation landscape.