VISITORS to a unique glass top observation gallery can now discover fascinating facts about the heritage of Halton.

Historic film clips and archive photographs are now on display at Catalyst Science Discovery Centre in a new interactive resource thanks to a £47,400 grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF).

The project entitled Panoramic Observations : Around Halton in 360 Degrees was launched by the Lord Lieutenant of Cheshire David Briggs at an evening reception.

Speaking to guests, Mr Briggs said “Panoramic Halton is an outstanding idea which really brings to life what has been achieved in the borough in the past.

“Runcorn and Widnes have one of the richest industrial histories of any towns in the country and this project ensures that this important history which resulted in the saving of thousands of lives is not forgotten.”

Prior to the Industrial Revolution the area around Spike Island was green fields and marshland.

With the construction of the canal, the locks and the railway, West Bank soon became the heart of the chemical industry in the north west.

Marketing manager Meryl Jameson said: “We are thrilled to launch this fantastic resource which will not only help visitors to interpret the views from the observatory but will give them a wealth of information about the heritage of the area.

“This is the culmination of 18 months collaboration between local historical societies, volunteers and individuals without whom this project would not have been possible.”

Nathan Lee, Head of HLF north west, said: “Some of the most important landmarks of the Industrial Revolution are visible from the Catalyst observatory but have until now not been well explained.

“Now, thanks to National Lottery players, at the touch of a button or swipe of a screen, visitors will be able to learn about the local landscape and the scientific and industrial breakthroughs which occurred here throughout the 19th century.”

Guests included trustees and volunteers from Catalyst, members from Widnes and Runcorn Historical Societies, Sankey Canal Restoration Society, Merseylink volunteers, Mersey Gateway Crossing Board members and individuals who had donated photographs or been part of the steering group that helped to put the project together.

A printed guide to support the project and an education pack has also been produced so that schoolchildren can learn about local history in workshops led by the Catalyst education team.