Green building at heart of Mancunian museum

The eco-friendly building will be the centrepiece of a £54m redevelopment plan of the northern city’s Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI) and aims to be a world-class attraction that will showcase new technologies for energy efficiency, recycling and carbon reduction.

The new building will be constructed with the same recyclable ETFE material used in the domes of Cornwall’s celebrated Eden Project while photovoltaic cells on the roof will help supply the Museum’s electricity and its lily-shaped funnels will collect and recycle Manchester’s infamous rainfall for grey water use around site.

The building will minimise energy use, by adapting as the seasons change.

Ian Griffin, Director of MOSI said: “The newly-redeveloped MOSI would create a modern, environmentally-sustainable Museum which will showcase the world-first innovations and achievements of the North West, while transforming an under-appreciated area of the city into a vibrant new quarter with its own distinct character.

“We’re passionate about creating an inspirational Museum for the 21st century, which is inextricably linked to the rest of the city. People will be able to actively learn through collection items, but also feel connected to it as an iconic symbol of what Manchester is all about.”

Sir Richard Leese, Leader of Manchester City Council, said: “The plans will help a world-class Museum contribute enormously to the city’s science, technology and creative industries, will actively promote participation of young people in these industries, and will do so in a way that adds to the city’s sustainability.”

Sam Bond