Our history - 1970 to 1999

To do leading-edge research in particle physics and astronomy, you need access to 'big ticket' experimental facilities facilities few countries can afford on their own.

International facilities like CERN had shown the way ahead.

The resources at Daresbury and the Rutherford Laboratory were progressively adapted and enhanced for use in other areas of science and engineering.

1973
Following several name changes, the Radio Research Station at Ditton Park became the Appleton Laboratory.

1975
The Atlas Computing Laboratory was renamed the Atlas Centre and merged with the Rutherford Laboratory.

1979
The Appleton Laboratory merged with the Rutherford Laboratory to form the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory. The laboratory at Ditton Park closes.

1981
The SRC was renamed Science and Engineering Research Council (SERC) to reflect an increased emphasis on engineering research.

1984
The ISIS pulsed neutron source opened at the Rutherford Laboratory.

1994
The Science and Engineering Research Council was split into the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and the Particle Physics and Astronomy Research Council (PPARC).

EPSRC assumed responsibility for the Daresbury Laboratory and the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, which merged to become the Daresbury and Rutherford Appleton Laboratories.

1995
The Research Councils were restructured as a result of a government white paper, "Realising our Potential".

The Council for the Central Laboratory of the Research Councils (CCLRC) was created mainly to provide services and expertise to the other research councils on a contractual basis.

CCRLC took over responsibility for the Daresbury Laboratory and Rutherford Appleton Laboratory.