Why do we need to save the inspire centre?

Because we have to. Norfolk and Norwich in particular is becoming increasingly reliant on science as a basis for all kinds of new companies. It helps pull investment into the county and we are beginning to see the positive spin off effects of having a large well educated community on our doorstep. However this will not last if we neglect the process that starts the individuals on the road to being interested in science. We need to grow our own scientists. People come here because there is a pool of talent. Companies can find ordinary employees anywhere in the world, but if you have a base of people of a high calibre, the companies have to come to you. It isn't just the top scientists, it is also the engineers, mechanics, technologists and all the vast array of skilled workers that are needed to help Norwich thrive. If we lose this valuable resource the effects won't be felt for a few years but the pool of young people entering science will slowly dry up. Fewer children wanting to do science will mean less investment by education departments in facilities which will further reduce the intake and this will slowly affect further education and lead to a reduction at the top end.

We must save the centre for the long term future of Norfolk.

What is the centre for?

The Inspire Discovery Centre is a fantastic place for children of all ages to play, experiment and learn. The emphasis is on fun. What we are trying to do is get the children thinking: Why is that happening? and to inspire them to find out more. Children are naturally inquisitive and the centre is there to get them thinking. The one thing they won't think after a trip is that science is boring.

Is it all just about creating scientists?

No. The centre is there to help all children. We know very few will ever go onto being top scientists but if we can just get that bit of interest going they might become engineers, architects, mechanics, designers etc. So many jobs are grounded in technical skills and it will help them compete in what is a worldwide market for science related jobs.