Michael Hanlon, Chief Executive, Jurassica, 20/5/15
“We are shocked and surprised to hear the decision made by The Heritage Lottery Fund in our bid for a world class attraction on the Jurassic Coast. My main concern is the residents and businesses of Weymouth and Portland who can see the enormous opportunity our scheme brings to them. It is critical the project proceeds for them.
“It is highly telling that today’s extensive media coverage of a project which did not secure a Round 1 pass, is greater than that of a project which did.
“We will address HLF’s concerns and are determined to carry on regardless towards a second application.”
Richard Edmonds, Earth Science Manager, Jurassic Coast Team
“Jurassica has identified a key conservation World Heritage Site. Fossils for which the coast is famous for should be on display and secured for their scientific value. It is obvious that there is nowhere else along the coast that would be able to facilitate this.”
Emma Carter, B+B Weymouth (www.bb-weymouth.com)
“Jurassica is integral to the future development of Weymouth and Portland on many levels. On a practical business level, Jurassica will put Weymouth and Portland on the global map, driving tourism upwards and creating a much needed boost to this wonderful area. But the benefits are far wider than just economics – the positivity and support locally for the project has created a ‘feel good facture’ amongst the community that is unparalleled. We are truly disappointed about today’s announcement.”
Many thanks for asking me to comment and I am happy to do this as Owner of Popcorn Marketing and Friend of Jurassica or Past President of Weymouth & Portland Chamber of Commerce 2014/15.
Julie Cleaver, Owner of Popcorn Marketing, and Past President of Weymouth & Portland Chamber of Commerce 2014/15.
“Although we are all bitterly disappointed hearing the news that Jurassica is not included in this initial application to the Heritage Lottery Fund, I still believe that there is a huge about of support and goodwill being shown to the Jurassica project from local businesses, regional organisations and national companies. The Jurassica project has injected hope, inspiration and motivation into the local community and I am sure that with the determination of the Jurassica team and the support behind the project, that Jurassica will find a way to succeed in the future. I have enjoyed monitoring and supporting the project since the start and I will definitely be behind them every step of the way in the future.”
Wolfgang Grulke, Chairman Emeritus FutureWorld International Limited and Advisory Member of Jurassica
“I am delighted that Jurassica has the opportunity to submit an even better HLF application in the November timeframe. This is an ambitious project and in any event the majority of the funding will surely be found from private sources. The opportunity is to create a unique high-tech global attraction that will set the standard world-wide for museums and similar attractions. As that vision crystallises I am sure that several key philanthropists will join us in that quest. Roll on 2021!”
Catherine Brew, Partner, Red Plait Interpretation
“It is hugely disappointing that Jurassica was unsuccessful in its HLF bid. Not only is Jurassica able to tell internationally significant stories about our natural world, it will also have a hugely positive effect on the local area. The opportunities to provide jobs, educational activities, volunteering, and inspire young people are enormous. Despite this discouraging setback I remain fully committed to this extraordinary project and finding a way forward. We owe it Britain.”