Heritage Fund awards £9.7m towards Royal Observatory transformation

Royal Museums Greenwich has received £9.7m from the National Lottery Heritage Fund towards its capital project to transform the Royal Observatory.

Marking World Space Week, the money will go towards the organisation’s £77m “First Light” project to improve access to astronomy education and exploration through new galleries and displays, architecture, sensitive conservation and improved access.

The redevelopment will provide a new entrance pavilion, designed by Jamie Fobert Architects; landscaped paths linking new astronomy galleries to the observatory’s historic buildings; and four interactive galleries examining the themes of matter, motion, light and space.

A new courtyard, the Astronomers Court, will provide a covered space for more live science events, including experiments, astronomer-led talks and object handling; and a new roof terrace will provide space for live streaming of incredible celestial moments through the observatory’s modern telescopes.

The first phase of the project starts in November, with work planned for completion by spring 2028.

The Heritage Fund’s support will help to conserve the significant listed buildings on site, renew gallery spaces, enhance the connection between the north and south parts of the site with a wide garden walk and provide a new access tower to the Great Equatorial Telescope.

The grant adds to an earlier development grant of £300k, bringing the total investment in the project to £10m.

Paddy Rodgers, the director of Royal Museums Greenwich, said: “The National Lottery Heritage Fund is investing in the future with a donation of £9.7m towards our project of transformation of the Royal Observatory Greenwich in its 350^th anniversary year.

“This will assure its continuance for years to come as a place of awe and wonder that continues to further the public understanding of astronomy in line with its obligations at its foundation by the Royal Warrant in 1675.”

Eilish McGuinness, the chief executive of the National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “World Space Week is the perfect time to announce our role as a funding partner in this transformational project, a testament to the wonders of history, astronomy and science.

“The Royal Observatory Greenwich is a beacon of science and learning, and a World Heritage Site of national and international importance, so we are delighted that thanks to National Lottery players this magical place will continue to inspire for generations to come. It speaks strongly to our vision for heritage to be valued, cared for and sustained for everyone, now and in the future.”