Sky's plans to close their Stockport town centre call centre will have a 'devastating impact', the council has warned.

In an open letter to Sky, party leaders at Stockport Council expressed "deep concern and disappointment" over Sky's plans to close the call centre.

The closure could come at the cost of more than 500 jobs.

A spokesperson for Sky said the plans were part of an effort to "deliver quicker, simpler and more digital customer service".

The council said Sky's announcement was a 'significant shock', adding: "the closure will have a devastating impact on hundreds of employees, their families, and the wider local economy."

Four party leaders at Stockport Council have signed the open letter (Image - Nub News)

The open letter continues: "Given the scale of this decision, we are urgently seeking a meeting at the highest level with your leadership team to better understand the rationale behind this closure, explore any possible alternatives, and ensure that Sky fully meets its responsibilities to its employees and the wider Stockport community.

"We would also like to discuss what meaningful support Sky will put in place for affected workers and how we can work together to mitigate the impact of this decision.

"Our priority is to ensure that those affected receive the support and opportunities they deserve, and we hope that Sky will engage constructively with us on this matter."

You can read the letter in full here.

The letter was signed by four party leaders in Stockport Council, including: Cllr Mark Hunter, Leader of the Council, Leader of the Liberal Democrats; Cllr David Meller, Leader of the Labour Group; Cllr Matt Wynne, Leader of the Edgeley Community Association; Cllr Anna Charles-Jones, Leader of the Independent Ratepayers Group. It was also signed by Andy Burnham, Greater Manchester Mayor.

Sky said the plans were part of a move to a more digital focus with customer service (Image - Arlington Research / Unsplash)

Stockport MP Navendu Mishra similarly said: "I am extremely concerned by the announcement from Sky regarding the closure of three of its customer service centres - including the centre in Stockport.

"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. [...]

"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."

In a statement announcing the plans, a Sky spokesperson said: "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. [...]

"This is about building a future-ready Sky that continues to put our customers and their needs first."

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