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The SKAO Global Headquarters, located near to, and with views of the iconic Lovell Telescope at Jodrell Bank, near Manchester, UK, is the central control hub for a global team who are overseeing development, construction and operations of the SKAO radio telescopes in Australia and South Africa. The elegant and modern building, inaugurated in 2019, is a state-of-the-art facility which is already home to around 130 members of staff, including visiting scientists and engineers. The facility has a superb 160-seat Council Chamber where the SKAO Council holds its meetings, which is also used for large meetings and conferences. 

The SKAO Global HQ was designed with sustainability front and centre, using numerous environmentally friendly engineering solutions to ensure a minimal environmental impact. Natural lighting is provided by the huge glass facade, and the architectural teams have made important efforts to ensure that the ventilation, lighting and heating systems are as energy efficient as possible.

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The Jodrell Bank site, awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 2019, is surrounded by beautiful countryside, with ease of access to the Peak District, local market towns and good national transport networks, while being only a stone’s throw from bustling Manchester city centre. 

For local transport it is recommended that staff are able to drive to site or are willing to car share (subject to local COVID-19 advice and regulations). Nearby train stations include Goostrey, Holmes Chapel, Wilmslow and Macclesfield – although all will require some transport from the station to site. A shuttle bus from Wilmslow town centre to site was available on weekdays prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. This service is currently suspended and will be reintroduced in due course.