TOP level talks are being held later today, Wednesday, May 27, in a bid to ensure the UK Hydrographic Office stays in Taunton.

Taunton Deane MP Rebecca Pow is putting the case for keeping the agency in the town to Hydro chief executive John Humphrey and Minister for Reserves Julian Brazier as the County Gazette went to press.

It comes after the Ministry of Defence confirmed it was looking into options to replace the “ageing and expensive” premises in Admiralty Way, where around 1,000 people work.

A spokesman said consideration would be given to sites in Taunton and anywhere within an hour’s distance, with Exeter being looked at.

The announcement sparked anger locally, with Ms Pow leading the call to keep the UKHO in Taunton.

She told the County Gazette: “The UK Hyrdrographic Office is a global leader in the world of production of sea charts for naval and civilian shipping worldwide with a highly specialised staff.

“Having been based in Taunton for some 70 years, the business is a crucial part of the fabric of life in the constituency and I shall do my utmost to ensure it is retained here.

“In order to maintain its position as a world leader the business requires modernisation and I am holding urgent meetings with the UKHO and the Minister responsible for it, Julian Brazier, together with all local parties to forge the best way forward.

“I will be pressing to ensure this important business remains in the constituency at all costs.”