One of Bucks UTC’s latest employer partners, BAM Construction, has been appointed to build an all-new Sky Studios in Elstree. The contract, estimated to cost Sky £192m, is one of BAM’s largest ever contracts.

The new development, first announced in 2019, will consist of a 20,000 square foot area with 13 stages for TV and film productions, screening cinema, production offices and state-of-the-art post-production and digital facilities. It’s set to open in 2022.

Sky Studios’ COO, Caroline Cooper, said that “Elstree will enable us to produce more and more Sky Originals for our customers and is a key cornerstone of Sky’s commitment to become Net Zero Carbon by 2030. Working with BAM, we will select materials and use construction methods that support our goal to build the most sustainable film and TV studio in the world.”

The firm has been appointed by Sky, NBC Universal and Legal & General, an investment partner.

Sky Studios in Elstree will attract £3bn of production over the first five years of operation. The scheme will also be used to generate over 2,000 full-time jobs in the area, including a significant number of jobs in running operations and production. It’s expected to boost the local encomy across Hertsmere for years to come.

“We are proud to be an integral partner to achieving such an ambitious and sustainable scheme that will not only support the growth of the creative economy in the UK, but lead the way for others. This world class scheme reflects our own goals to be net zero carbon by 2030, to assist our clients in delivering net zero development and to enhance the lives of local communities, creating added social value.”

BAM claims the new Sky Studios development will play a “key role” in allowing Sky to become net zero carbon by 2030. The site will use renewable energy for power, with the capacity to generate 20% of this locally, through solar energy. BAM Energy will support Sky Studios in maximising the clean energy generated.

Sky Studios have produced award-winning shows like Chernobyl, Riviera and Patrick Melrose, with original content in production across Europe.