The History of the NCSC
Here is the historical timeline of the science centre project from 1998 to 2024. With some of the original volunteer board members still lending their support since 1998 the NCSC is testament to Seamus Heaney’s words in Death of A Naturalist – “even if the last move did not succeed, the inner command says move again.”
Over the years, the project has experienced many highs and lows, each playing a significant role in shaping its journey. From the initial discussions and planning stages to securing permissions, facing setbacks, engaging with government bodies, and ultimately revitalising the project with renewed commitments, this timeline captures the key moments and developments that have defined the evolution of the NCSC.
The Seven Chapters of the National Children's Science Centre
Here is the historical timeline of the science centre project from 1998 to 2024. For a more detailed chronology, please contact us at +353 01 416 0043 or info@nationalchildrenssciencecentre.ie
Chapter 1: Inception and Vision: Early Discussions for the NCSC (1998-2003)
The inception of the National Children’s Science Centre (NCSC) began with discussions initiated by the then Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade & Employment. The NCSC board collaborated with the Office of Public Works (OPW), sharing a business plan and welcoming two government-nominated board members, ultimately entering a formal agreement to build an interactive science centre promoting STEM and STEAM in Ireland. The government confirmed the OPW would provide a contract and lease, leading to the signing of the agreement and the commencement of design talks.
Chapter 2: Project Launch: Securing Permissions and Design Phase for St John’s Road Site, known as Heuston Gate (2003-2008)
The project was publicly launched by then Tánaiste Mary Harney, Minister of State Tom Parlon, and the Chairman of the OPW, with planning permission granted and the appointment of an Executive Director and exhibit design consultants, Gyroscope. A business plan and fundraising strategy were developed, and the new science centre was announced to be built on St John’s Road. The OPW applied to Dublin City Council to alter the planning permission to reflect the revised architectural design, which was granted without objections.
Chapter 3: Lead-Up and Arbitration: Navigating Challenges and Negotiations (2008-2012)
Amid the economic downturn, the OPW struggled to finance the construction of the science centre, prompting the Board to seek funding from various government departments. Although the NCSC received some administrative funding from the Department for Arts, Sports & Tourism and support from other departments, a proposal to use the CHQ building as a new site was deemed unworkable by the OPW. Consequently, the NCSC reluctantly referred the matter to arbitration.
Chapter 4: Earlsfort Terrace Site and Planning Success (2012 – 2016)
The OPW committed to renovating the North Wing of the Earlsfort Terrace building, with the Department of Enterprise, Trade & Employment approving the contract. Despite concerns from the NCSC about delays, the OPW assured that the September 2016 target was achievable and presented design plans, which the NCSC board approved. A revised business plan was emailed from the NCSC board to the OPW, and final planning permission was obtained, with construction projected to be completed by mid-2017.
Chapter 5: Stalling and Setback: Building Inaction and Lapsed Planning Permission (2016-2022)
Major delays occurred due to the lack of a confirmed timeline from the OPW, leading to frustration and multiple letters from the NCSC to the OPW Chair. An up-to-date NCSC Business Plan was sent to relevant government representatives, and despite a meeting with the then Taoiseach and various correspondences with government departments, no memorandum to progress the project was submitted to the Cabinet. The NCSC referred the dispute to an independent arbitrator, who ruled in favour of the NCSC, mandating the OPW to carry out the agreed works, and planning permission was finally granted in March 2024.
Chapter 6: Constructive Engagement: Positive Government Meetings (2023)
Following successful arbitration, the OPW committed to developing the NCSC, and planning permission was granted, marking a significant milestone in the project’s progress. The NCSC updated senior civil servants across various departments, including Tourism, Culture, Arts, Media, Sports, and the Gaeltacht; Education; Further and Higher Education (DFHERIS); Science Foundation Ireland; and several political figures.
In its report - The Future of STEM in Irish Education (July 2023) - the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Education strongly endorsed the setting up of the NCSC.
Chapter 7: Renewed Momentum: Fresh Permissions, Leadership, and Renewed Commitment (Present)
In this latest phase, new planning permission was received, and the board was refreshed under a new chair, bringing a renewed commitment to the NCSC project. Meetings were held with Tánaiste Micheál Martin, Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform Paschal Donohue, and Chair of the OPW John Conlon, while various issues raised at a Public Accounts Committee meeting are currently being addressed by the OPW and the NCSC board. Additionally, we have received support from the leaders of the Labour Party and the Green Party, as well as the Lord Mayor of Dublin.
This revitalized effort signals a fresh start and a promising future for the NCSC, with planning permission granted by An Bord Pleanála in March 2024. the support from the leaders of the Labour Party and the Green Party as well as the Lord Mayor of Dublin.
Note: The information and dates above are supplied in good faith and to the best of our knowledge. For any supporting documentations, please contact us on info@nationalchildrensciencecentre.ie
