Story perspectives

UKRI to Cut £2.8 M Funding, Threatening Lovell Telescope, e-MERLIN

8/1/2026

Summary

Story summary

UKRI will end its £2.8 million grant to Jodrell Bank Observatory in March 2028, threatening the Lovell Telescope and e-MERLIN.
President Paul Howarth warned the cuts could eliminate 28 jobs and damage the UK's scientific reputation, while MP Sarah Russell has urged ministers to fund the Lovell Telescope and e-MERLIN beyond 2028.
A petition with over 13,000 signatures has been launched to support continued funding for the Lovell Telescope and e-MERLIN.

History

Historical Context

In May 2010 the Cameron-Clegg coalition, led by Chancellor George Osborne, announced a £500 million quango-cut programme and a £6 billion deficit-reduction plan that slashed £100 million from the Science and Technology Facilities Council, halting the Lovell Telescope upgrade and delaying e-MERLIN. A proposed £2.8 million UKRI grant termination in 2028 revives those austerity pressures, threatening the same facilities.

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Story summary

UKRI will end its £2.8 million grant to Jodrell Bank Observatory in March 2028, threatening the Lovell Telescope and e-MERLIN.
President Paul Howarth warned the cuts could eliminate 28 jobs and damage the UK's scientific reputation, while MP Sarah Russell has urged ministers to fund the Lovell Telescope and e-MERLIN beyond 2028.
A petition with over 13,000 signatures has been launched to support continued funding for the Lovell Telescope and e-MERLIN.

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