Building and Refurbishment Services for Planetarium, Including Lift and Kitchen Installations

At Xplore! Science Discovery Centre, we are embarking on a bold redevelopment programme—Xplore! 2.0—to transform our facility into a dynamic hub for science, technology, engineering, the arts, and maths (STEAM) education.

Through a phased approach, supported by the Shared Prosperity Fund and the Moondance Foundation, we will deliver new facilities that broaden access, raise aspirations, and strengthen the skills pipeline in Wales. Phase 1 will establish the only fixed-dome planetarium in north-east Wales, alongside essential accessibility upgrades.

Phase 2 will create LaunchPADLansio, a dedicated early years STEAM space, together with a redesigned café and kitchen to support families. Collectively, these developments will provide a step-change in our capacity to deliver impactful, inclusive, and future-focused STEAM learning experiences for our community and beyond.

Phase 1: Planetarium and Accessibility Upgrades. Tender-focus: Planetarium room build, office relocation, stairwell refurbishment and lift installation Phase 1, funded by the Shared Prosperity Fund (SPF) Transition Fund, will deliver a fixed-dome planetarium equipped with advanced AV technology and licensed software to provide high-quality STEAM experiences for groups of up to 30 visitors per session.

Supply and installation of the planetarium are part of a separate tender package. To ensure full accessibility, Phase 1 also includes the installation of a platform lift, stairwell refurbishment, and relocation of staff offices to the first floor.

The planetarium is expected to be fully operational by March 2026, with coordinated delivery between contractors and planetarium suppliers. Phase 2 – Early Years STEAM and Café Redevelopment.

Tender-focus: LaunchPADLansio room build, kitchen installation and café redesign and installation Phase 2, funded by the Moondance Foundation, will establish LaunchPADLansio, a 212m² immersive STEAM exhibition space designed specifically for under 5s. The space will spark curiosity, foster imagination, and support early cognitive, communication, and social development.

It is underpinned by the Wales Early Years Framework and Curriculum for Wales (Progression Step 1), with a focus on learning through play. This phase also includes a kitchen upgrade and café redesign, creating a welcoming hub for families. Interactive elements such as planet domes and space-themed exhibits in the café will extend the learning experience in informal settings, connecting families to STEAM themes beyond the gallery.