Member Article

Multi-million pound investment in Jodrell Bank Observatory

£1m will be invested in Jodrell Bank Observatory by Cheshire East Council.

Jodrell Bank is competing to retain its status as the headquarters of the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) project for another 50 years after the end of the existing contract, which has only four years left to run, retaining the status is worth £1bn to the private sector.

Cheshire East’s support will also unlock more than £100m of funding from the European Regional Development Fund, Heritage Lottery and the further education sector.

The University of Manchester is already investing £16m toward refurbishment of the Grade 1 listed assets on the site and more than £19m is being sought from HLF and ERDF to build a new visitor pavilion and gallery space.

The Council’s executive director for economic growth and prosperity, Caroline Simpson, said: “The Council has set out a clear action plan to develop and grow the technology and science corridor in the area and Jodrell Bank plays a key part in this plan.

“The Council is committed to supporting the growth and success of the Jodrell Bank site as a unique asset in the Cheshire Science Corridor, and we continue to work closely with partners across the Manchester city region to develop the site’s record in hosting world-class science and visitor activities.”

The Council also plans to put in place a Local Development Order for the Jodrell Bank site which will allow for a simplified planning process.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Sophia Taha .