Political leaders in Cheshire urge action on Jodrell Bank threat
Political leaders across Cheshire have called on the Government to save Jodrell Bank after it emerged funding for the site is to be withdrawn. They want the Government to commit to
By Nantwich News
Political leaders across Cheshire have called on the Government to protect Jodrell Bank after funding for the site was withdrawn.
They want ministers to commit to covering the £2.8 million annual upkeep for another five years while a longer-term solution is found.
The concern centres on the Jodrell Bank Observatory in Cheshire, home to the Lovell Telescope and part of the e-MERLIN network. Reports say the current funding arrangement is due to end in March 2028, with scientific activity at the site potentially affected unless replacement support is secured.
Macclesfield MP Tim Roca said he was in active discussions with UK Research and Innovation, the Science and Technology Facilities Council and the University of Manchester to understand the implications and press for the best possible outcome for Jodrell Bank.
He said current funding for e-MERLIN is in place until 2028 and that alternative options were being explored.
Cheshire East councillors have also raised concerns about the future of the observatory and the impact of any cut on the site’s research work.