A threat to learning

SIR – The Government needs to address the situation at Burlington House urgently.

The Society of Antiquaries, the Geological Society and the Linnean Society have been based at this unique scientific and cultural campus in London for over 145 years. This shared home has enabled significant contributions to science, heritage and learning. PwC estimates that the Societies contribute £39.7 million in public value to the country every year.

Yet rents, which have increased by 3,000 per cent in the last decade, are forcing the societies towards costly relocations, threatening to disperse their priceless collections, libraries and archives. Despite assurances from the landlord, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, that new solutions would be offered, the societies are still awaiting an update and time is running out.

Securing their future supports the Government’s priorities to tackle climate change, halt biodiversity loss, transition to a low-carbon economy, and improve understanding and appreciation of our cultural heritage.

We urge the Government to find an affordable solution before it is too late. Axel Rüger

Chief Executive, Royal Academy of Arts Jools Holland

Loyd Grossman

Professor Alexandre Antonelli Director of Science, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew

Lynne Farrell

President, Botanical Society of Britain and Ireland

Dr Nicola Stacey

Director, Heritage of London Trust and 60 others; see telegraph.co.uk