Lancashire-based company Collinson plc were chosen to construct the new home of the Doctor Who Experience, supplying one of their tension membrane buildings, which, with the ability to offer clear spans of up to 100m by virtually any length provided the perfect clear open internal space for BBC Worldwide to create a memorable exhibition which will take visitors on an exciting journey through special effects, sets and memorabilia from the series, including a recreation of the modern TARDIS.
A representative of Cardiff Council said “Collinson tailored a great solution to meet our requirements, when the build commenced they kept us fully informed at regular meetings and worked amiably with other contractors appointed by us to ensure the project was completed to meet BBC Worldwide’s deadline. This attraction is expected to bring millions of pounds into the city’s economy, and the benefits to Cardiff will be immense in the terms of tourism. We wish Cardiff and the Doctor Who Experience every success.”
Working in conjunction with Cardiff City Council and their chosen architects Holder Mathias, Collinson designed and constructed the 3000m² building, housing 4181m² of internal space which in addition to the main exhibition hall incorporates a first floor mezzanine and two storey accommodation comprising reception area, café, classroom, kitchen, washrooms and offices.
The building also features a glazed curtain wall on the front façade, lending a futuristic feel that Doctor Who fans will undoubtedly approve of. Dan Collinson, Managing Director of Collinson said “This has been a great project, working with Cardiff City Council and BBC Worldwide on the Doctor Who project and being part of creating something imaginative and extraordinary is always exciting for us. We’re confident the finished result will not only impress visitors to the exhibition, but we hope it will inspire people think creatively when it comes to the materials and design that can be utilised in constructing public buildings such as this.”
Now open, Earthlings have a chance to visit the Experience, with an opportunity to board the TARDIS, meet the Doctor, Daleks, Cybermen, Ice Warriors.
For more information please visit: http://www.collinson.co.uk/construction.