UKRI cuts £2.8m Jodrell Bank grant amid rising costs
The UK’s science funding body is withdrawing a £2.8m annual grant from the historic Jodrell Bank Observatory, a move that threatens 28 jobs and highlights the financial strain inflation is placing on European research infrastructure.
UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) will withdraw its £2.8m annual grant from the Jodrell Bank Observatory when the current funding term ends in March 2028. The decision places the future of the Cheshire-based research facility in jeopardy. It also underscores the mounting financial pressures on state-backed scientific infrastructure.
Jodrell Bank is a Unesco world heritage site home to the Lovell Telescope. Inaugurated in 1957 as the world’s largest steerable dish, the telescope remains the centrepiece of the seven-telescope e-Merlin network in England.
The funding withdrawal poses a direct threat to the site's scientific operations. According to the BBC, nearly 3,000 scientists rely on Jodrell Bank for their research. If alternative financing is not secured, 28 jobs could be lost.
UKRI attributed the cut to broad macroeconomic headwinds. In a recent budget statement, the body warned that costs for its science and technology programme are “forecast to increase significantly”. This rise is driven by higher energy and labour costs, unfavourable foreign exchange rates, and the overall expansion of its activities.
The move has drawn sharp criticism from the cultural and scientific communities. UK artist Conrad Shawcross, whose kinetic work features in the observatory's current exhibition, warned of the broader consequences. “I am deeply concerned to hear that Jodrell Bank Observatory is currently facing closure following funding cuts,” Shawcross said. He noted the Grade 1-listed site is essential for training future astronomers. A public petition to save the observatory has gathered more than 13,000 signatures.
UKRI pushed back against claims of a total closure. In a 31 July factsheet, the body stressed it does not directly fund the physical site, but rather specific research projects operating from it. It argued that researchers have significant notice and access to alternative global facilities, adding that e-MERLIN has already served its role in preparing scientists for future radio astronomy projects.
The University of Manchester, which owns and manages the site, confirmed the adjacent museum will remain open as it is funded separately from the research programme. However, the institution must now find new revenue to maintain the telescopes. “The university’s focus now is on securing the future of Jodrell Bank and the e-Merlin network,” said Sarah Sharples, the university's vice president and dean of science and engineering.
