A commitment by the OPW to building a children’s science museum may have exposed the State to a potential €26m compensation payment if the project was not delivered.
The commitment to build a National Children’s Science Centre that is projected to cost at least €70m at the northern wing of the National Concert Hall in Dublin is two deacxdes old.
An agreement with Irish Children’s Museum Limited in 2003 obligated OPW to deliver the museum or face legal consequences.
The project will have an impact on Iveagh Gardens due to the development raised concerns about the removal of a high wall, trees, and impact on the park’s character.
The success of another science centre, Explorium in Sandyford, raises questions about the need for a second state-backed science centre and potential competition.
Despite concerns, advocates for the National Children’s Science Centre are still emphasising the benefits and propose future collaborations with Explorium.
