Ontario Science Centre (OSC) has signed a 15-year, CA$10m (US$8.2m, £4.4m, 6.4m euro) partnership with telecommunications company Telus, which will secure the future of the centre’s Agents of Change campaign.

Part of the funding will be used to create a new outdoor exploration plaza, which will transform the centre’s main entrance.

The 34,000sq ft (3,160sq m) plaza will offer visitors interactive large-scale experiences.

Work on the new extension began in April with completion expected by summer 2006.

Lesley Lewis, OSC‘s chief executive, said: “This exploration plaza will be a vibrant addition to both the Ontario Science Centre and the community.

“Telus’ contribution marks a significant milestone for the Science Centre, taking our Agents of Change campaign well over the original CA$40m (US$33m, £17m, 26m euro) goal to a total of CA$45.6m (US$37.5m, £19.9m, 29m euro).”