AS THE public are given the first chance to comment on plans for a multi-million pound Oxford science centre, the architect Norman Foster has spoken of his passion for the project.

Lord Foster, the man behind iconic structures such as the German Reichstag in Berlin, the new Wembley Stadium and the London ‘Gherkin’, has been chosen as the architect to design the £30m Magnet centre, which will be built on the site of Macclesfield House, next to Oxford Castle.

Science Oxford, which is behind the scheme, describes the project as a “world class centre for science and enterprise in the heart of Oxford”, and hopes to have it open by 2015.

This week consultations have been running with local people to find out what they think.

Lord Foster, who also holds the title of Humanitas Visiting Professor of Architecture at Oxford University, said he wanted to build a “world class facility” showcasing cutting edge science from Oxford, which would attract 100,000 visitors a year.

He said: “Whether we are exploring new, greener ways to power our cities or developing the computer technology that helps us to design complex, energy efficient buildings, we rely on scientific innovation. Science affects architecture, and our daily lives, at every level.

“The enthusiasm for discovering how things work, how they fit together, has been a constant in my work over the years.

“Science Oxford is dedicated to inspiring the public and future generations of innovators. This is an important endeavour.

“We are delighted to be involved.”

Science Oxford’s Dominic McDonald, said there would be three main sections to the project – the visitor attraction, education for local schools, and a start-up centre for new businesses.

Plans have already been made for permanent exhibitions, including one called ‘From Dreaming Spires to Screaming Tyres’, which would describe the history of the city. Another exhibition would allow children to do hands-on experiments.

There would also be a planetarium-style theatre called ‘The Sphere’ – which would transform into an Imax theatre for0 films and music.

Mr McDonald added: “Local people are more important to this project than anyone else.

“We want it to have a real local flavour and be accessible to everyone in Oxford, so we really want to hear what they have to say.”

“The reason this is being built in Oxford is because it is for the people of Oxford. We are hoping it will give them more understanding about their lives and where they live.”

Mr McDonald said: “We have no idea what the building will look like yet, but it is all very exciting.”

news@oxfordmail.co.uk You can contribute views on the plans by dropping into Science Oxford, in London Place, St Clement’s, on school holiday Saturdays and weekdays, or by going to the website scienceoxford.

com/our-future