Jodrell Bank Observatory faces closure threat despite Prime Minister's pledge to save site

Prime Minister Andy Burnham has pledged to find a way to prevent the closure of the Jodrell Bank Observatory in Cheshire. The UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site faces a potential end to scientific observations on April 1, 2028, following a decision by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) to stop prioritizing the site for further funding.

During Prime Minister's Questions, MP Sarah Russell highlighted the significant medium-term problems facing the observatory due to these budget cuts. In response, Burnham stated, “there is no way that we can see its demise, and it won’t happen under my government,” emphasizing the site's importance as both a scientific and national heritage asset.

The observatory is home to the Grade-I listed Lovell Telescope. The threat of closure has drawn support from various public figures, including astrophysicist Sir Brian May and Professor Brian Cox, who have urged government intervention to secure the site's future.