New photographs have been released of the subterranean Victorian reservoir at Sherwood Observatory, which is to undergo a major transformation to include a planetarium.

Plans for the observatory in Sutton have been given the go-ahead by Ashfield District Council’s Planning Committee.

The project includes the planetarium and an educational centre as part of the £62.6m Towns Fund Deal for Ashfield.

The planetarium will be built on top of the brick-built underground reservoir, which will be transformed into an exhibition hall, classrooms, and meeting/conference rooms. The planetarium will be open for pre-booked visits, scheduled events, and educational visits.

Christine Sarris, council assistant director for planning, told the planning committee meeting, said: “If you haven’t been inside the reservoir, it is absolutely fascinating.

“It’s an old, subterranean Victorian reservoir and it’s absolutely brilliant it’s going to be retained.

“The pictures give a glimpse of the fantastic Victorian architecture beneath.

“All of this will be (made) dry and very much cleaned up, so you can see it in all its glory.”

Steve Wallace, planetarium project manager, said “Granting of our planning application is great news. It represents a big step towards delivering on our vision to create a fantastic new science discovery centre and planetarium that will inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers and entrepreneurs, as well as bringing visitors into the area.”

Work will start on site later this year with completion expected in 2024.

Martin Rigley, chairman of the Discover Ashfield board, added: “The jobs and prosperity of our area will be increasingly dependent on having a STEM-educated workforce. The new planetarium and visitor centre will play a key role in presenting these subjects in an exciting and hands-on way to raise awareness of the opportunities a STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) career can unlock.”

Coun Matthew Relf, executive lead member for Regeneration and Corporate Transformation at the council, said: “This is one of the most exciting projects for Ashfield. The planetarium will enhance our local educational facilities The observatory is an exceptional asset, not just for Ashfield but the wider area.”