PLANNING chiefs will take inspiration from the new Sky headquarters when it comes to Station Approach.

The building in London took 12 months to complete from start to finish and the plans were carried out in the most environmentally friendly way possible.

This was discussed at a Winchester City Council meeting on July 8.

Cllr Caroline Brook asked: “The Sky Believe in Better Building is an inspiration to us all. It is something to aspire to at Station Approach.

"Can this be achieved in Winchester in 2021?"

Cabinet member for local economy and climate emergency Cllr Paula Ferguson responded: "The new Sky HQ in London is one of a number of buildings with a strong low carbon approach which the city council and future designers and developers should strongly take note of.

"This applies especially to the future progression of a scheme at Station Approach, the programme for which will be tied into future market studies, and a design review, in line with better understanding of the

implications of Covid-19. "The review needs to focus on both future working patterns and the market, as well as for an optimal solution for this site in line with stakeholder aspirations, the city’s economic strategy and vision for Winchester."

The Sky building was a project by Arup – a company contracted by the city council to support the implementation of its regeneration projects.

It is the UK’s tallest commercial timber building.

Speaking of the design on their website, a spokesperson said: "Speed was crucial, with completion needed in time for the brand’s 25th anniversary celebrations. With this milestone fast approaching, Sky entrusted Arup with the rapid design and delivery of this technically demanding project.

"Reflecting Sky’s commitment as a carbon-neutral company, the architecture also incorporates extensive environmental innovation. It is a structure that does a lot with very few materials, most notably its use of sustainable wood that makes it the UK’s tallest commercial timber building."