New automotive business district will create 2,700 jobs

More than 2,700 jobs are set to be created in a new business district being supported by government investment of £35 million.

The 24-hectare automotive business zone in Whitley, near Coventry, is aimed at attracting local manufacturers and supply chain firms from next year.

The site is being developed with another £10 million support from Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership, Warwick District Council and Coventry City Council.

Business and Energy Secretary Greg Clark said: "Our world-class auto sector is leading the way and this new development will create thousands more skilled jobs. It shows how private and public sector can work together to make a difference to the economy."

The new funding will also help improve local transport links, connecting the site with the A45, and constructing a new bridge to join the new development with an existing Jaguar Land Rover engineering centre.

Speaking ahead of a visit to Coventry-based advanced manufacturing company AMT Expert, Business Minister Margot James added: "The resurgence of advanced manufacturing and the automotive industry in the West Midlands is a real success story.

"It's vital we maintain this momentum and keep creating high-skilled jobs and don't let any opportunity slip through our fingers. Today's £35 million investment unlocks land that will help to cement the region as a leading destination for investment."