Despite objections from local businesses, the 200,000 square metre development now has planning approval.
Mira Technology Park’s expansion could create up to 2,500 jobs in Nuneaton, primarily within advanced manufacturing and automotive research industries.
However, concerns have been raised about the prospect of significantly increased traffic on the A5, the installation of traffic lights on Woodford Lane and a ban on right turns in and out of Drayton Lane. One objector, speaking for the company Extra Room Storage, has since been dismissed due to a lack of ‘detail and accuracy’ relating to the complaint, while the proposed road improvements have apparently been ‘fully supported’ by authorities including Warwickshire Police.
‘That letter indicates there is, in their view, highway evidence to show that unreasonable restrictions will come as a consequence of the proposal at this particular junction,’ said Jeff Brown, North Warwickshire Council’s Head of Development. ‘They are not changing their view. Members can take their own view on that judgement but the recommendation is certainly that our position does not change.’
Mira Technology Park is already considered the leading European hub for automotive technology and a UK centre of excellence for the industry. The site is home to 35 global original equipment manufacturers, Tier 1 and specialist companies associated with advanced vehicle production. Founded in 2010, since opening the cluster has delivered leaps in fields such as cleantech energy, connected and autonomous vehicles, electrification, cybersecurity and artificial intelligence. Four new zones are being added as part of the expansion, adding 200,000 square metres of new facilities.
Image: Pawel Czerwinski / Unsplash
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