Major programme of investment completed at visitor destination

Magna Science Adventure Centre’s fire zone has re-opened after a full refurbishment by Sheffield-based interactive and immersive tech specialists Aivaf.

The Fire Pavilion’s refit marks the end of a two-year programme of upgrades at the 24-year-old Rotherham visitor attraction.

All four of Magna’s core exhibitions – which explore the power of earth, air, fire and water – have been refurbished with all existing exhibits refreshed, new ones installed and updated information displays added.

Aivaf, which offers interactive exhibit design, fabrication and installation, has been Magna’s partner throughout its refurbishment programme and carried out the £280,000 transformation of the Fire Pavilion.

Managing director at Aivaf, Bruce Davies, said: “We’re thrilled to bring the Fire Pavilion at Magna back to life again.

“Our team has pushed the boundaries of interactive design and artistry to ignite an experience that is as visually spectacular as it is educational.

“Visitors of all ages will leave with a new-found appreciation for the science and power of fire.”

Fire’s new exhibits include ‘Fire Snake’ where visitors can ignite a burst of gas and watch its flames swirl at speed along a clear spiral tube.

Youngsters can pilot a full-size helicopter simulator to fly over forest wildfires and extinguish rampaging flames and create ever-changing patterns by moving magnets over a Ferrofluid exhibit.

The Fire Tornado, a floor to ceiling whirlwind of flames, remains the zone’s most photographed selfie centrepiece. And the powerful electro-magnetic cranes are back in action. This exhibit puts young people at the controls to sort old metal cans for recycling; steel, melted down by fire, is the most recycled material on the planet.

Magna Education director, Stuart Ballard, said: “The refurbishment of Fire completes an extensive period of investment and improvement right across Magna.

“Our aim throughout has been to future-proof the visitor attraction, with a clear focus on delivering engaging and exciting STEM learning, accessibility and sustainability.

“It’s fantastic to see young people returning to our Fire Pavilion and exploring the wonders, beauty and power of this most dramatic of elements.”

Other improvements have been made at Magna Science Adventure Centre to improve the visitor experience and invest in the historic former steelworks building.

Its full £1.9m revamp has been part-funded by a wider £20m investment in key parts of Rotherham’s leisure economy, backed by government Levelling Up funding secured by Rotherham Council.

As well as upgrading its exhibits, Magna’s refurbishments have included revamps of its reception area, café and lifts.