Discover the £100m Collections Centre at Natural History Museum: A Game Changer!

Mace Takes on Landmark £100m Project at the Natural History Museum

In a significant move for both the construction industry and scientific research, Mace has been announced as the main contractor for a new collections, research, and digitisation centre at the Natural History Museum (NHM). This facility, set to be built in Shinfield at the Thames Valley Science Park, marks a bold investment of £100m aimed at enhancing the Museum's operational capabilities and scientific outreach.

Why This Project Matters

The new centre is more than just a building; it embodies the intersection of science, technology, and cultural heritage. It will serve as a storage site for approximately 28 million specimens, accounting for almost a third of the NHM’s vast collection. Equipped with state-of-the-art technology, the facility will facilitate advanced research on pressing issues such as climate change and health, thereby playing a crucial role in addressing some of the most significant challenges facing the planet today.

A Focus on Advanced Research and Preservation

Rob Lemming, Managing Director for Public Sector and Life Sciences at Mace, emphasizes that the project is not solely about preserving the Museum's invaluable specimens. "Our focus is on creating a facility that serves as a centre for groundbreaking research," he stated. The proposed building will feature high-tech solutions, such as molecular biology laboratories and digitisation suites, which will enable researchers to access and study collections more efficiently.

Massive Transportation Undertaking

This project will also witness the largest transfer of natural history specimens globally, a logistical endeavor requiring meticulous planning and execution. Transporting these items from their current locations to the new facility poses numerous challenges, but Mace is prepared to navigate these complexities to ensure safe and efficient relocation.

Investment Backing: A Sign of Commitment to Science

The NHM project is made possible by a substantial £201m investment from the UK Government. This backing highlights a national commitment to bolstering scientific research and development, suggesting that the future of science in the UK is being prioritized. The impending completion of this facility in 2027, with operations kicking off in 2031, will further establish the UK as a hub for scientific inquiry and innovation.

What Professionals Should Know

For builders and contractors, Mace's involvement in this significant project represents an opportunity for collaboration and innovation within the industry. As construction begins imminently, industry professionals may want to keep an eye on developments. Understanding how Mace is leveraging technology and project management may offer valuable insights into effective practices for similar large-scale projects.

The Bigger Picture: Enhancing Science and Research

The Natural History Museum's new centre not only represents an investment in infrastructure but also in our collective understanding of the natural world. As societies increasingly grapple with climate-related challenges, preserving natural history specimens becomes essential for education, research, and addressing future hurdles. With Mace at the helm, the new centre promises to be a game changer in how science is conducted in relation to cultural heritage.

Takeaway: A Bright Future Ahead

The establishment of the collections, research, and digitisation centre at the Natural History Museum stands as a beacon of progress. It demonstrates a commitment to merging scientific research with public interest, ensuring that future generations will have access to vital knowledge about our planet. In paying attention to this project, industry professionals can glean insights applicable to their own work, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence.