Warwickshire anticipates high-tech employment surge
Warwickshire is on the cusp of a significant boost in high-tech employment opportunities, with the prospective expansion of the MIRA Technology Park, as discussed by industry leaders.
The chamber of commerce for Coventry and Warwickshire recently convened its North Warwickshire branch meeting at the MIRA Technology Institute within the park, situated along the A5, marking the boundary between Warwickshire and Leicestershire.
At this gathering, Sarah Windrum, who leads the park’s future mobility cluster, shared ambitious plans for the site, spanning 850 acres.
She detailed the current planning stage for 2.4 million square feet of manufacturing space aimed at generating 2,000 specialised, high-value roles on the Warwickshire side, highlighting the park’s role in pioneering new technologies such as battery technology and hydrogen fuel cells.
“It would represent a considerable uplift for the region, enabling the provision of numerous quality jobs here, with the subsequent expenditure benefiting the local economy,” she stated.
“We are in the midst of planning, yet we’ve already attracted substantial interest from prospective tenants eager to join the MIRA Technology Park, particularly drawn by our sustainability efforts and goals for the site. These are indeed thrilling times for us.”
Corin Crane, the chamber’s chief executive for Coventry and Warwickshire, commented, “Following our recent report highlighting the scarcity of employment land in the area and its potential as an obstacle to the region’s growth, it was enlightening to receive an update on the park’s developments. It underscores the positive impact that introducing such employment spaces could have on our region.”
Marcus Jones, MP for Nuneaton, offered updates on the national economy, focusing on inflation and interest rates, alongside information on government assistance.
“A combined investment from the private and public sectors, totalling approximately £155 million, is earmarked for the rejuvenation of Nuneaton town centre, encompassing Abbey Street, Bridge Street, Vicarage Street, Riversley Park, and the Market Place.
“This initiative is proceeding with due regard for the area’s historical edifices,” he further added.
“While acknowledging the challenges faced by businesses across the area, it is vital to recognise the progress within this part of Warwickshire, including the promising developments at the MIRA Technology Park.”
The meeting saw attendance from figures such as Tom Mongan, North Warwickshire branch chair and chamber president Marcus Jones, MP for Nuneaton, Lauren Bond, from the centre for local economic strategies, and Corin Crane, CEO of the Coventry and Warwickshire chamber of commerce.