First Light Pavilion, Jodrell Bank

Cheshire

Completed: January, 1970

Services: Civil & Structural Engineering, DfMA & Precast Concrete, Below Ground Drainage

A new £20.5m visitor attraction at the iconic Jodrell Bank site in Cheshire. The new subterranean concrete dome structure, which is the first in the UK for over 25 years and one of the largest concrete domes in Europe, was designed to display the history of Radio Astronomy while conserving and restoring the heritage at the Jodrell Bank site.

The 76m-diameter dome is topped by grass and cleverly mirrors the shape and scale of the landmark Lovell Telescope. Inside, the pavilion houses an exhibition gallery which brings to life the Jodrell Bank story, as well as an immersive planetarium, education hub and new café. Roscoe, involved as structural engineers, were engaged to validate the initial principles of the design.