Catalyst Science Discovery Centre warns it could close without funding
Catalyst Science Discovery Centre in Widnes faces closure without urgent funding, as rising costs and other pressures hit the venue.
By Runcorn & Widnes World
Catalyst Science Discovery Centre in Widnes has warned it could close unless it secures around £100,000 in additional funding.
The registered charity, based on Mersey Road, is facing severe financial pressure after a difficult year. Rising running costs, fewer visitors during hot summer weather, reduced visitor spending and the loss of funding from industrial backers have all affected its finances.
Chief executive Nikki Burton Mallott said the centre’s running costs were about £2,000 a day. She said the organisation needed an extra £100,000 a year to secure its future.
Ms Burton Mallott said the centre’s industrial supporters had faced their own global challenges, while visitors were also spending less when they came.
She said the ongoing financial pressures had resulted in “daily firefighting”, making it difficult to plan for the longer term. Ms Burton Mallott works part-time at Catalyst because of its financial position.
Catalyst is the only museum in the UK dedicated specifically to the chemical industry. It also runs educational activities, including regular school visits.
The appeal comes as the centre prepares to mark its 40th anniversary next year. It is also carrying out a major renovation through the Synergy Project, supported by £1 million from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
The project will refurbish the Birth of an Industry gallery and digitise the centre’s archives, making them more accessible. The refurbished gallery is expected to open in 2027.
Ms Burton Mallott said the funding appeal was urgent and called for help from visitors and businesses. She said support could include visiting the centre, spreading the word and leaving reviews, while business backers were also encouraged to contribute.