PLANS are afoot to turn Wroughton airfield into Swindon's answer to the Eden Project. The revolutionary enterprise would bring a Creative Planet to the site, a presigious attraction which would draw tourists from all over the country. London's Science Museum, which owns the airfield, is behind the project.

Like the Eden Project in Cornwall, it would be an ecologically-friendly centre of excellence.

However, unlike the Eden Project which concentrates on plants and nature, the Wroughton project would have a focus on science and innovation.

The proposed national centre of sustainable development would spearhead The National Museum of Science and Industry's mission to redefine the role of museums in the 21st century.

It would include five so-called Knowledge Farms, each exploring various aspects of the relationship between human activity and the planet.

The farms would highlight research and development, business enterprise, innovation and creativity.

The NMSI's master plan claims the 545-acre site has huge potential.

It was once considered as the new site for the Millenium Dome it is so large it could contain 28 of them.

Research is being carried out to see whether the development, currently a museum and aerodrome, can proceed.

The NMSI has secured £250,000 in Government funding from the Regional Development Agency to carry out feasibility studies as part of its investigations.

Details of the proposals were mentioned at the recent South West of England's RDA annual review, held in Corsham.

Among the items agreed was an effort to improve the image of Swindon and its surrounding area.

Philip Watkins, RDA head of operations, said: "The Science Museum approached us with the idea. It sounded like an exciting enterprise and we agreed to support the consultative work.

"The RDA is all about vision and innovation, so we are extremely interested in the initiative."

The London Science Museum uses the Wroughton site for storage and the display of transport exhibits, including planes, cars and motorbikes.

According to the NMSI's vision statement, its hangars will be changed beyond recognition within a decade, "releasing millions more stories for people to access".

Stephen Bromberg, spokesman for The Science Museum, confirmed that potential uses for the land were being explored.

He said: "It is very early days. We are waiting for the results of the feasibility studies and other consultation work, which will be extensive. No decision will be made before this is complete."

Representatives from The Science Museum in London and Wroughton are meeting with members of Swindon Council to explain the project next month.

Nick Fenwick, head of planning and health at Swindon Council, said: "The Creative Planet title certainly captures the imagination. We look forward to hearing more about the proposals."

Councillor Mike Bawden (Con, Old Town and Lawns) is equally inspired by the idea.

The Tory group leader said: "The Eden Project has worked wonders for Cornwall and this idea sounds very promising.

"It would be great if Swindon's landmark could be The Creative Planet instead of the notorious Magic Roundabout."