A grant from the Cornish Lithium Community Fund supports Observatory for Cornwall

The Cornish Lithium Community FundA sum of money made available for grant making, often with specific criteria/conditions. supported the restoration of a second dome at the Observatory for Cornwall in Chacewater, enabling local groups to engage with astronomy. Established in 1999, the observatory had faced setbacks, including vandalism, but restoration efforts resumed in 2019.

The projectA piece of work that delivers an output. involved dismantling the dome, replacing rusted components, and reassembling it with the help of local contractors and volunteers.

“Having successfully restored our first dome, there was no stopping us when it came to dome two.” Rob Knill, leading team member.

Despite technical challenges, the dedicated team of volunteers, including grandfathers and grandsons, councillors and carpenters, worked tirelessly. The dome was successfully restored and now rotates smoothly.

Cornish Lithium’s ESG & Sustainability Manager, Lucy Crane, highlighted the observatory’s role in education and community engagement, stating that it provided “invaluable opportunities to look up and learn about the awe-inspiring world of astronomy.” The project not only enhances educational resources but also fosters social connections in a historic mining area.

For more information about the Observatory for Cornwall, please email project secretary, Steve Clovelly, via steveclovelly@gmail.com

About the Funder

The Cornish Lithium Community Fund awards grants of between £250 and £2,500 to support the work of local clubs, charities and activity groups that seek to make a positive difference in the Company’s project areas. These currently include Blackwater, Carharrack, Chacewater, Gwennap, St Agnes, St Day, Twelveheads and china clay country around St Austell. The next funding round opens in March 2025.

This is one of more than 12 Community Benefit Funds managed by Cornwall Community Foundation.

If you are a community group looking for funding, please view our available grants.

If you are looking to support the Cornwall Community Foundation with a donation, go to our online donation page.