After hearing from Rob Back, Coventry City Council’s Strategic Planning Lead, on the city’s Local Plan, and David Hope, part of Coventry City Council’s Economic Development Service, on the future of business support, Corin said there was huge potential for growth.
He said: “Coventry is at a critical point that will help to define its future so its vitally important that we get the planning right.
“There are big decisions to be made around new housing and new employment land and how all of that fits together with other infrastructure and services.
“We have a group of expert Chamber members who have come together and produced a report on the need for more employment land, which is crucial in growing our economy.
“And, it’s important to remember, that growth isn’t about making businesses richer, it is to create jobs, opportunities and investment into the communities of the city.
“I know for a fact that there is massive interest in Coventry from companies that want to invest here. We’re in a very strong position from that point of view and we need to do everything we can to get them here in the coming months and years.”
Rob told the branch that Coventry City Council was consulting on the latest iteration of its Local Plan which will set the basis for planning decisions from mid-2025 onwards.
He said that the City Council was particularly keen to hear from landowners and agents on potential development sites for either homes or employment. He also gave a brief update on the latest plans for the city centre.
David explained how the landscape of business support was changing post-Brexit but that firms in the region can still access help.
Tim Squires, chair of the Chamber’s Coventry branch, said: “It was fascinating to hear from both Rob and David on areas of planning and business support – something our members are very keen to know more about.
“My advice to companies across the city is to get in touch with the team at the Chamber if you need any help or if you want us to help to amplify your voice to decision makers.”
Pictured (left to right): Corin Crane, Lily Samuels, Jade O’Shea, Rob Back, Tim Squires
