A NEW science centre at a Headington Quaryy has been given a shot in the arm and a funding boost.

The Oxford Trust is building a new science and innovation centre at Stansfeld Park after securing planning permission for the project last year.

As part of the plans a new building - the Science Oxford Centre will offer an environment for primary-aged children to learn about science.

Now the Royal Commission for the Exhibition of 1851 has given out a financial award to help develop a LiveLab zone in the Science Oxford Centre.

The LiveLab will be a curated, bespoke space for children to experience a research environment and to meet real working scientists and engineers.

Equipped with video camera capabilities, laboratory benches, microscopes the space will be used for scientist-led demonstrations featuring researchers from Oxford University and local businesses.

When completed the major refurbishment project will also include a science discovery zone containing custom built interactive installations for children.

There will also be a new learning space in the 15 acres of woodland, grassland and ponds to expand physical sciences and engineering to help teach about biodiversity.

As well as these there will be a ‘flexible theatre’ - a 12-seat facility which will include films, talks and shows as well as temporary planetarium installations.

There will also be an atrium space and a cafe.

The centre will open in Autumn 2018.