The future of Jodrell Bank could be under threat after reports that the Government could withdraw funding
The complex which is part of the University of Manchester has housed the UK’s largest telescope for nearly 70 years
Reports say that scientific observations at Jodrell are expected to cease on the 1 April 2028 unless alternative funding can be found.
The Cheshire-based site houses seven telescopes but could be scaled back, as part of funding cuts by the Science and Technology Facilities Council.
UK Research and Innovation confirmed a cut to zero funding for e-Merlin, a wider project of seven radio telescopes, of which the Lovell—headquartered at the Jodrell Bank Observatory—is one.
Science and Technology Facilities Council has announced nine projects “not prioritised for further funding” and needs to save almost £700 million by 2029-30
British participation in research at Cern is is also set to fall, with the UK cancelling a second chance to fund an upgrade to a key Cern experiment.
Michele Dougherty, the STFC executive chair, said: “After listening to our community we have protected core discovery research within particle physics, astronomy and nuclear, through a more focused portfolio that safeguards postdoctoral researchers, protects PhD opportunities and maintains the UK’s international leadership.
“However, the situation does require some tough but necessary decisions, which we have outlined today.
“These are never easy choices, but we have made what we feel are the right decisions to bring STFC to a sustainable financial position by 2029-30.”
