West Flanders gets new technology experience centre to rival Amsterdam's NEMO Science Museum | VRT NWS: news

"We know that technology excites, fascinates and inspires many people," says Jurgen Vanlerberghe (Flemish socialist Vooruit), member of the West Flanders provincial executive. "The sea has many unknown facets that people want to discover in a fun and playful way. We want to bring everything related to the blue economy together in one large experience centre." The blue economy is that part of the economy which in some way or other is linked to the sea. This encompasses not only traditional sectors like fisheries and shipping, but also, for example, offshore renewable energy generation. NEMO Science Museum Will the new technology park resemble the Earth Explorer, the interactive science park that was located in Ostend and closed its doors in 2013? "I'd rather compare it to the NEMO Science Museum in Amsterdam," says Vanlerberghe. "There's always a fantastic atmosphere there and it's buzzing with activity." "Our centre must put the coast even more firmly on the tourist map. And it must be open all year round, come rain or come shine." A sound financial base Neither the Earth Explorer or its successor Explorado proved to be financially sustainable success stories, but Vanlerberghe is optimistic. "Look, we've learnt from the past. So, together with the (Flemish tourism agency) Tourism Flanders, we're paying close attention to the business side of things. We're looking for a reliable partner who is financially sound." The centre must be located in one of the ten coastal municipalities. "Any municipality with a strong proposal is welcome to apply," says Vanlerberghe. "This proposal must clearly outline what the centre would look like. But the centre must also be accessible. And it must collaborate with knowledge centres and other partners." Open by 2031, but ealier would be a 'bonus' 'The Flemish government is investing 4 million euros in the enterprise, and the province of West Flanders a further 2 million. But candidates will, of course, also have to make an investment themselves. The total cost will therefore be higher; the 4 million euros up front is mainly intended to make the project possible in the first place." Candidates must submit their applications by 4 September. The centre must open by 2031 at the latest. "If it can open sooner, that's a bonus. But quality comes first," concludes Vanlerberghe, who in the provincial government has special responsibility for the environment and information technology.