Twickenham CLP has written to Mary Creagh CBE MP, Minister for Nature, urging DEFRA to withdraw funding for the proposed relocation of Kew Gardens’ Herbarium Collection to a science park outside Reading.

The majority of Kew’s scientific staff strongly oppose this move, which would force many into long commutes or even relocation. Some key researchers have already indicated they would not continue working at Kew if the proposal goes ahead, a loss of great expertise that would undermine Kew’s globally respected research.

The Herbarium was originally bequeathed on the condition that it remain at Kew, and its relocation could put Kew’s World Heritage status at risk. The estimated £200 million cost of the move is extremely high, particularly when secure onsite storage could be built at a fraction of the cost. Claims that Kew lacks capacity or faces unique flood risks have been questioned.

When in opposition Labour shadow ministers had opposed this project, and Labour members in neighbouring Richmond Park CLP share our concerns. At a time when government departments face severe budget constraints, there is an opportunity to make savings that staff and local residents would support. In this letter, Twickenham CLP has urged DEFRA to stop funding the project and secure a commitment to keeping the Herbarium at Kew.

UPDATE: Twickenham CLP finds it very encouraging to receive a response from Mary Creagh CBE MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Nature, on 17th February,  stating that Defra continues to be briefed on Kew’s proposals regarding the future location of the Herbarium. Twickenham CLP is grateful for the minister replying to our letter.