Andy Burnham has vowed to protect Jodrell Bank Observatory and save Britain’s iconic Lovell Telescope from the impact of future funding cuts.
The historic Lovell Telescope has stood at Jodrell Bank in Cheshire since 1957. It is the world’s third-largest fully steerable radio telescope and remains a major UK scientific landmark.
However, UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) announced in July that Jodrell Bank would not be prioritized for additional funding after the current agreement ends in March 2028.
Speaking about the future of Jodrell Bank, Mr Burnham said: “My generation all went on school trips to Jodrell Bank, and we will never see that end. That will not happen under my government.”
UKRI said the decision followed “a comprehensive, evidence-based prioritization process” focused on future research funding priorities.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed his commitment to preserving Jodrell Bank after MPs raised concerns about the observatory’s long-term future in the House of Commons.
Congleton MP Sarah Russell, whose constituency includes the former Jodrell Bank site, warned that the observatory faces significant medium-term challenges because of funding cuts.
She urged Mr Burnham and Number 10 North to work with her and Macclesfield MP Tim Roca to secure a sustainable future for Jodrell Bank Observatory.
Mr Burnham said: “While we are aware that changes have been made to research funding, Jodrell Bank is both a vital research asset and an important heritage site for the country.”
He agreed to hold the meeting requested by Ms Russell, adding: “There has to be a way to save Jodrell Bank. I promise you I’ll find it in this delivery box today.”
Source: www.bbc.co.uk