Closure of Jodrell Bank a ‘tragedy’ for UK science, says Prospect

The Jodrell Bank Observatory in Cheshire, home to one of the world’s largest steerable telescopes for more than 70 years, could be forced to close after it has had its funding cut, it has been reported.

UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), the public body that directs science and research funding in the UK, said it had to focus investment on projects that deliver “the greatest long-term impact”.

If the cuts proceed, Jodrell Bank will close in April 2028.

Sue Ferns OBE, Prospect’s Senior Deputy General Secretary, said:

“Jodrell Bank is not just an iconic site in UK science in the North West of England, it is a facility that underpins our world leading research capabilities. Closing it would be a tragedy that undermines the mission for the UK to be a science superpower.”

“This is just the tip of the iceberg of a programme of cuts that is set to devastate UK public sector science and cost many scientists their jobs. The new government, with its focus on regional growth, must reconsider before irreparable harm is done.”