What has been confirmed
On 9 July 2026, UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) published the outcome of the Science and Technology Facilities Council's prioritisation exercise for 2026 to 2030. In the published table, the entry for “e-MERLIN + JIVE” records the following outcome:
“e-MERLIN not prioritised for further funding”
These points come from the published UKRI outcome and the University response. Both sources were checked on 30 July 2026.
What the University says
The University's response was published on 27 July 2026. It says Jodrell Bank remains open and that the University is working with partners to secure the future of the Lovell Telescope and e-MERLIN.
What the decision does not mean
The decision does not mean that Jodrell Bank is closed. The University states that Jodrell Bank remains open, and UKRI says that current agreements continue in full to their existing end dates.
It is also not a statement that every activity or source of support at the site ends in March 2028. Research operations, public engagement, heritage activity and the hosting of the Square Kilometre Array Observatory headquarters have different purposes and funding arrangements. They should not be treated as one interchangeable budget.
What remains uncertain
The operating arrangements after March 2028 are not yet settled. Effects on observing, research, engineering or training remain possible outcomes rather than confirmed consequences while those discussions continue.
Reported figures for the annual grant, affected jobs and numbers of researchers have not been independently established in the available primary sources. They are intentionally omitted from this page.
What happens next
Current agreements continue while the University explores alternatives. Any later funding decision or confirmed operating plan could change this account.
Because this is a time-sensitive subject, the page records its review date prominently. It should be updated if UKRI or the University publishes a later funding decision or confirmed operating plan.
For the purposes served by other funding streams, read Funding explained. For the decision in date order, see the funding timeline.
Once you have reviewed the confirmed position, the Take Action guide sets out restrained, proportionate ways to learn, share and contact your own MP if you choose.