Techniquest

Techniquest appoints local construction company for its £5.5m Science Capital project build

July 5, 2019

Cowbridge company G. Oakley & Sons has been appointed to manage the build for Techniquest’s Science Capital project.

Oakley & Sons has over three generations of expertise to its name and specialises in the commercial and leisure building sectors. Notable clients to date have included David Lloyd leisure clubs, Premier Inn and Greene King pubs, restaurants and hotels across the UK.

The firm has commenced on site this month and it will take approximately 35 weeks to complete.

The Cardiff-bay based science centre will remain open during most of the build, however, will close in September for some internal works.

The Science Capital project will radically transform the UK’s longest running science centre, increasing its footprint by 60% to house brand new innovative content.

The scheme will also include a new vibrant public entrance, coffee shop and retail space.

 

 

 

Adam Oakley, of G. Oakley & Sons said: “We’re thrilled to have been appointed by Techniquest for this project. To work with such an institutional brand is a big honour and we can’t wait to play a part in transforming this much-loved science discovery centre.

“As part of our commitment to this particular scheme, we will be running an educational programme to help local young people understand what’s involved in a project of this scale. We will be looking to make the construction site part of the experience for school children visiting Techniquest by creating porthole windows to see our team at work. We will also be providing educational information prior to their visit so they know in advance what to look out for once they’ve donned their mini high viz jackets and hard hats.”

The appointment of G. Oakley & Sons is the latest in a line of local businesses contracted to work with Techniquest on the Science Capital project including architects HLM, planning consultants Wardell Armstrong, project managers Lee Wakemans and engineers Hydrock.

Lesley Kirkpatrick, CEO of Techniquest said: “G. Oakley & Sons grasped our vision straight away and demonstrated how they would meet the timetable and deliver on budget which were vital elements to us. This project will be transformational in its scale but most importantly will open up the door to science for all.

“I’m absolutely thrilled that G. Oakley & Sons wanted to combine its live working environment with that of a learning experience for schools visiting us too.  Going above and beyond like this can only be a positive thing in helping to break down the barriers of STEM subject selection among school-aged children.

“The new Techniquest will enable us to increase the age range and diversity of our audiences and, in turn help us to increase our visitor numbers. This will provide vital additional income to ensure Techniquest continues to provide a first-class visitor experience in Wales for years to come.”

The £5.5m Science Capital project is being was supported by the Inspiring Science Fund, a scheme co-funded by the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS), UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and Wellcome. Techniquest has also received funding from the Moondance Foundation, Garfield Weston Foundation and Welsh Government’s ‘Invest to Save’ fund.

 

Find us

  • Techniquest, Stuart Street, Cardiff, CF10 5BW

Contact us

  • info@techniquest.org
  • 029 2047 5475
    Mon–Fri: 9am–5pm Sat–Sun: 10am–5pm
    While we always endeavour to answer calls, when the centre is busy it may not always be possible.
    If you leave us a message we will respond to you as quickly as we can.

Opening hours

  • Techniquest’s opening hours vary — visit the Opening Times page to find out the current hours.

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FAQs

  •   What is Techniquest?

    Techniquest is an educational charity, with a science centre in Cardiff Bay. Our mission is to embed science in Welsh culture through interactive engagement. We provide a range of services to schools and teachers to complement formal education provision in Wales and work extensively with public audiences.

  •   Where can I park?

    We are pleased to be able to offer all of our visitors discounted parking with Q-Park, our preferred parking partner.

    The Q-Park operates the Cardiff Bay car park in Pierhead Street which is around 8 minutes walk from Techniquest.

    We have agreed a special discount rate for our customers of 15% off all pre-bookings.
    Pre-book and guarantee your space here using the code TECHNI15.

    There are also nearby pay-and-display car parks on Stuart Street and Havannah Street. Please do not park on Havannah Street itself.

    We regret that there is no parking on-site at Techniquest.

  •   Who is it for?

    Techniquest is suitable for all ages! We do have special events for certain groups, however — see Toddler Days and Home Educator days.

  • I have a different question.

    Please see our dedicated FAQ page.

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