UK Hydrographic Office to stay at Taunton site

The centre employs about 950 staff at its base in Taunton

The UK Hydrographic Office will remain in Taunton following an assessment of the costs of moving out of its outdated premises.

In May the Ministry of Defence (MoD) began feasibility studies to relocate to a site within an hour's drive of the town.

The centre based in Admiralty Way provides maps and charts to maritime agencies, the Royal Navy and mariners.

The MoD is to demolish some buildings to create a new office to open in 2019.

'Fully digital'

Some land will also be sold for redevelopment.

Chief executive of the office, John Humphrey said the decision was a "really exciting time" and was a step towards becoming "a fully digital, data-centric organisation".

"I am delighted to be able to continue our long connection with Taunton and the South West and continue to invest in the future of UK Hydrographic Office."

The centre employs about 950 people and the government has confirmed there are no plans for jobs losses as a result of the office move.

Conservative deputy leader David Hall, said: "I really couldn't be more delighted.

"It's so important the Hydrographic Office stays in Taunton, it's a prestige facility."