What is the John Hope Gateway?
This pioneering and beautiful building at the West Gate will offer a host of new experiences and attractions for visitors of all ages, such as:
- Welcome and orientation
- Dedicated biodiversity and sensory gardens
- Participation zones covering the introduction, importance and involvement of biodiversity
- Real Life Science studio with live video/web links to scientists and nature in Scotland and around the world
- Education room
- Dynamic exhibition areas
- Informative energy efficiency and design displays
- Flexible format public meeting room
- Exceptional themed shop and restaurant
Displays and changing exhibitions will give Garden visitors a chance to find out more about biodiversity loss, climate change and the need to use resources in sustainable ways. They will also be able to enjoy historically important heritage artefacts and specimens from the RBGE's national collections that have not previously been accessible to the public.
How is the building being constructed?
The sustainable materials being used, plus the various energy saving measures and renewable energy production, will make the John Hope Gateway efficient and cheap to run. It will also be an excellent example for promoting sustainability and design.
When will the John Hope Gateway open?
The building is scheduled for completion in December 2008, after which work will begin to fit out the interior, Biodiversity Garden and install displays. We plan to open the John Hope Gateway to the public in summer 2009.
Where can I find out more?
A new John Hope Gateway Information Chalet is now open close to the main construction site. Here visitors will find up-to-date information about the project and can enjoy panoramic viewing position.
Garden Rangers will open the Chalet at 10am and it will close approximately 30 mins before the gates close each evening.
Aerial view illustration of locations (see left):
1. Viewing Chalet
2. Biodiversity Garden