Sky launches Innovation Hub, gains access to fibre network Details Michelle Clancy | 19 September 2019 Sky Studios has launched an Innovation Hub, focussed on the development of talent, scripted partnerships and new content experiences centred in the north of England. More specifically, the Leeds-based Innovation Hub will be devoted to “fresh, diverse talent to create new, original drama, comedy and scripted ideas for Sky and its customers.” Sky is in production with five Sky original shows across the North and Northwest, including Tin Star Series 3, set in Liverpool, and Cobra, Little Birds and Intergalactic all filmed on location and in studio space in Manchester. Brassic, Sky’s biggest original comedy series launch for seven years, is currently in production for series 2 in Lancashire and stars Michelle Keegan. By basing the Innovation Hub in Leeds, Sky will be able to access creative talent and storytelling from the production community across the North of England. “We want to ensure that we invest in talent for the long term and with the increased competition for projects, we’re aware that there are fewer opportunities for new talent to develop their voices and breakthrough,” said Cameron Roach, director of drama, Sky Studios. “As part of Sky’s wider commitment to innovation, our Innovation Hub will create an environment in which anyone, no matter what their background, is encouraged to find their voice, whilst also looking at innovative ways in which those voices can be developed.” In other news, Sky and BUUK Infrastructure have announced a strategic partnership that will see Sky obtain wholesale access to BUUK’s full fibre networks across the UK, opening up headroom for growth in the new-build segment of the residential market. As part of the deal, Sky will become the anchor tenant for broadband services in new and existing residential developments connected by BUUK, the leading independent provider of last-mile utility networks in the UK. “We’re committed to driving forward ultrafast connectivity in the UK and this deal with BUUK enables us to use our anchor tenancy to unlock infrastructure investment, while entering a new market with significant potential for growth,” said Stephen van Rooyen, CEO UK & Ireland, Sky.