MORE LOCAL JOBS – SKY GETS THE GO-AHEAD

In these times of worldwide recession and rising unemployment it’s good to know that new jobs are coming to the local area.  At the end of April Hounslow gave Sky planning permission to create a media campus on their site at Osterley.  Over a 10 year development period the jobs based there will grow from the current 8350 to around 12,000, and the build work will add 2300.  When all 4 phases are complete there will be 175,000 sq m of offices, studios, production and R&D facilities.  This will add to the studios, the wind turbine and the biomass heat and power plant which are currently in various stages of building.

I proposed that Hounslow grant planning permission at Hounslow’s Planning meeting in April.   The opportunity to provide sustainable jobs locally is a godsend in these difficult times and 3500 more permanent jobs, and 2300 construction jobs over the next ten years, will bring a real boost to the local economy.  We have also agreed with Sky that they will encourage local job applications, and provide an on-site training centre, apprenticeships, and links with local schools. 

Another local benefit is the restaurants and shops on the site which will be open to the public. 

There is no doubt that transport to and from the site will present a challenge, but we have agreed a number of measures with Sky where they will limit on-site parking and fund local Controlled Parking Zones if needed.  They are also funding improvements to Syon Lane station, to local bus services and to the pedestrian and road infrastructure.  Sky are required to sign up to a robust travel plan to ensure as many staff as possible use public transport, walk or cycle to work.  There will be a new road link between Grant Way and Harlequin way which will reduce pressure on Gillette Corner and Syon Lane and allow for a new bus route through to the campus directly from the A4.