By Robert Van de Noort
As an archaeologist, I have a soft spot for looking into the past. Understanding what shaped our history is key to preparing and planning for our future.
Heritage and creativity is one of the key research themes at the University of Reading. And increasingly, we are in good company with others across Wokingham and Reading.
One of these exciting projects is a collaboration with the Natural History Museum (NHM) to create a new collections, research and digitisation centre at the University’s Thames Valley Science Park in Shinfield.
Subject to planning permission, the NHM Unlocked programme will see 28 million specimens – including anteaters, corals, and ancient fossils – moving to the new facility. It will be the Museum’s largest collections move for 140 years.
The new facility will secure the future of the collection and help transform the study of natural history, opening up innovative research opportunities for academics here in Reading, and around the world.
It will be very exciting to bring this unique collection to Wokingham. I for one am pleased to see that the local community will have the chance to find out more about the plans for the new facility in more detail next week.
On Thursday 14 September, the Natural History Museum will be hosting two drop-in sessions (3:30pm – 4:45pm / 6:15pm – 8pm) at the Gateway Building, Thames Valley Science Park, where anyone with an interest can view the building designs and learn more about the Museum’s plans directly from Museum staff.
Any feedback received as part of the public consultation will help to shape the planning application when it is submitted. The current aim is for the building to be completed by 2027, and fully operational by 2031.
The Natural History Museum’s Shinfield centre won’t be open routinely to the public in the same way as their museum in London – part of the point of the move is to make space to open up new galleries in South Kensington. But NHM has shown great commitment to work with the local community and is exploring lots of options for the best ways to do this.
This could come in the form of working with local schools to encourage young people to develop their fascination in science, technology, engineering and maths – and all the many careers this can lead to. NHM may be looking at voluntary or partnership opportunities with local organisations. They may also explore options to bring their unique skills in natural history, making the most of the natural surroundings and boosting biodiversity in Shinfield and Arborfield.
I can’t wait to find out more. The NHM are world leaders in the science and discovery of the natural environment. By working together, with the University and the wider community, we’ll bring even more benefits to them and to our area.
Professor Robert Van de Noort is the vice-chancellor of the University of Reading
