Hundreds of jobs will be lost
The leader of Stockport council has slammed Sky’s shock decision to close its base in the town.
The media giant’s plans to close three out of 10 of its UK call centres have been confirmed, in Stockport, Sheffield and Leeds. Meanwhile, a ‘multi-million-pound investment’ will be made at its site in Livingston, Scotland.
It’s understood that 545 jobs are expected to be lost in Stockport, with around 2,000 jobs at risk in total across the company, which is owned by US firm Comcast.
Coun Mark Hunter, Stockport council’s Liberal Democrat leader, says the local authority had ‘no prior indication’ of Sky’s plans – which will hit the town with an ‘unexpected and significant blow’.
In a statement, Coun Hunter said: “We are shocked and deeply concerned by the sudden announcement that Sky is closing its call centre in Stockport – without warning – leaving local jobs, families, and our economy facing an unexpected and significant blow.
“There was no prior indication of this decision, making it all the more alarming. Our immediate priority is to understand the full implications of this decision and to support those affected.
“I am urgently seeking a meeting at the highest levels with Sky’s leadership to discuss their rationale, explore any possible alternatives, and ensure they fulfil their responsibilities to their employees and our community.
“I will be looking to work closely with our local MPs and the Greater Manchester Mayor to push for meaningful support for affected workers and to explore new opportunities for investment and employment in Stockport.
“Stockport is a thriving hub for business and innovation, and we stand with our workers, and we will do everything in our power to secure a positive outcome for them and for our town.”
Stockport’s Labour MP Navendu Mishra has also raised concerns about the ‘significant impact’ Sky’s closure will have on his constituency.
“I am extremely concerned by the announcement from Sky regarding the closure of three of its customer service centres- including the centre in Stockport” he said in a statement.
“Sky has a significant presence in Stockport constituency and employs a large number of people here. While there is a consultation taking place, the decision to close the Stockport site will lead to the loss of 545 jobs; I understand the significant impact this will have on the families and workers affected.”
Mr Mishra added: “I have already requested an urgent meeting with Sky and I will also be raising this matter with the Government to ensure that the necessary support is provided for those who are affected, and to address the wider implications of job losses in our region.
“I remain committed to standing up for Stockport and will continue to do everything I can to support families in our town during this challenging time.”
Announcing the plans on Thursday, a spokesman for Sky said: “We’re transforming our business to deliver quicker, simpler and more digital customer service.
“Our customers increasingly want choice, to speak to us on the phone when they need us most and the ease of managing everyday tasks digitally.
“We’re investing in a new centre of excellence for customer service, alongside cutting-edge digital technology to make our service seamless, reliable, and available 24/7.”