An internationally acclaimed London museum is set to transform its gardens into a state-of-the-art urban nature facility.
Following many years of scientific planning, the Natural History Museum’s five acre garden transformation was approved by the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea today (October 29). Once completed, it is expected to be at the heart of the UK’s leading Urban Nature Project.
The new facility will delve into innovative wildlife research and provide the people of London with compelling insight of how the nation can protect the natural world as urban biodiversity remains in grave danger.
Artistic impression of the development
The new initiative is fully supported by Sir David Attenborough, who said the project will allow people to “fall in love with the nature on their doorsteps.”
He continued: “The natural world is under threat as never before. Species that were a common sight in gardens across the country when I was young, such as hedgehogs, are rarely seen by children today.
“These declines have devastating consequences for wildlife. Unless children have access to nature and experience, understand and nurture wildlife, we know they might never feel connected to nature and could grow up with no interest in protecting the natural world around them.”
To answer Sir David Attenborough’s prayers the project is set to roll out a nationwide learning programme for families and schools. This will include advanced e-learning platforms and an onsite education hub.
A state-of-the-art education hub will be featured at the development
A cutting-edge scientific laboratory is also set to be developed, in which Natural History Museum will collaborate with other global museums and wildlife organisations to conduct and develop ground-breaking research to share with similar institutions around the world.
Commenting on the spectacular transformation Clare Matterson, Executive Director of Engagement at the Natural History Museum said: “At a time when people have spent most of the year social distancing at home, the nature on our doorsteps takes on ever greater appreciation and importance.
Continuing: “We hope the Urban Nature Project will not only galvanise people to reengage with the nature on their doorsteps, but building on the Museum’s scientific and public work, we want to trigger a movement that will ultimately help reverse these declines.”
Natural History Museum’s urban nature transformation is set to open to the public in 2023.
Video explores the proposals for the Urban Nature Project garden
Elsewhere, Therme Group is set to launch an empire of futuristic spa resorts in the UK.
