PLANNING chiefs have given the green light for Jaguar Land Rover’s £500 million expansion on the edge of the district.
JLR will occupy half of the 60 acre Whitely South site near Coventry Airport while the remaining 30 acres will be earmarked for use by the car giant’s suppliers – further supporting the region through the supply chain. The move could create an estimated 2,000 jobs.
Dual planning permission from Warwick District Council and Coventry Council – needed as the site straddles the boundaries of both councils – was given recently, paving the way for the massive investment in the firm, the region and its workers ans suppliers.
David Penn, of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “It is fantastic news that Jaguar Land Rover’s expansion plans have been passed.
“It’s an iconic company for this area and it’s impossible to overstate the economic contribution it makes in terms of jobs – directly and indirectly – and the positive knock-on effect it has on the supply chain.
“That said, I do repeat my plea that more land be brought forward for industrial use to help the city and the region accommodate the growth this could bring.”
A spokesperson for JLR said they were pleased the councils had approved outline planning permission.
He added: “This will support Jaguar Land Rover’s long-term strategy to expand its advanced engineering and design centre at Whitley.
“Subject to the outcome of the next stages of the planning process, the proposal could create additional high-quality research and development office space near to Jaguar Land Rover’s existing site at Whitley.
“The wider development plans may accommodate other businesses and almost half of the land will be set aside for landscape improvements and local community use.”
