I am today announcing the initial results of a review for the location of the UK Hydrographic Office (UKHO).

The UKHO and Met Office have carried out an analysis of the benefits and costs of co-location with the Met Office at Exeter, compared to the other option of developing a new facility in Taunton.

The conclusion of this work is that it is not cost effective to move the UKHO’s 900 strong office workforce to Exeter, and in addition any such move would cause substantial disruption to both organisations.

I therefore confirm that the UKHO will remain in the Taunton area and that further work is on going to determine detailed options for the office.