An ambitious scheme to create a new planetarium and science discovery centre in Sutton has moved a step closer.

Project leaders behind the proposed initiative at Sherwood Observatory have submitted a formal planning application for the centre to Ashfield District Council. If the plans are approved, the site could open in autumn 2024.

The scheme aims to turn a disused underground Victorian reservoir on the site of the existing Sherwood Observatory into a state-of-the-art tourist attraction and education centre.

The reservoir would be repurposed to house a multi-functional exhibition area and teaching spaces, while preserving existing architectural heritage features.

A 10m diameter planetarium, accommodating approximately 60 people per show, would sit on the reservoir’s roof. It is set to become one of just a few UK destinations to combine a planetarium with an observatory.

The new centre has the potential to attract thousands of guests a year to support the local visitor economy.

It has already secured support via the Towns Fund programme and is making good progress in securing matched-funding to bring the scheme to fruition.

However, more support is still needed to turn this exciting vision into reality and the organisation would be particularly interested in talking to businesses in the area about sponsorship opportunities, which could be financial contributions, donation of materials, or work in kind.

Planetarium project manager Steve Wallace said: “Submitting the planning application marks an important milestone in the project journey.

“If approved, work can start on the development in the middle of next year, with a view to be open and fully operational by our ideal timeframe of Q4 2024.

“Our goal is to create a unique and exciting visitor attraction to inspire interest in astronomy and space science, help develop the next generation of STEM talent, bring more people to the local area, and deliver an outstanding audience experience.

“The jobs and prosperity of our area will be increasingly dependent on having a STEM-educated workforce. The new planetarium and visitor centre would play a key role in presenting these subjects in an exciting and hands-on way to raise awareness of the opportunities a STEM career can unlock.

“It will also be a jewel in the crown of the local visitor economy, creating a unique tourist attraction that will help put this area on the map and attract people from across the UK to Ashfield.”