Businesses in north of Warwickshire urge Government to move forward with new infrastructure projects
Businesses in the north of Warwickshire are appealing to the Government to press ahead with key infrastructure projects such as the shift to electric vehicles to protect the long-term interests of the UK economy.
Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce held its North Warwickshire Branch meeting at the MIRA Technology Institute which sits right on the A5 border between Warwickshire and Leicestershire.
Businesses heard from Tom Mongan, North Warwickshire Branch Chair and Chamber President; Marcus Jones, MP for Nuneaton; and Sarah Windrum, the Future Mobility Cluster Lead at MIRA Technology Park.
Among other businesses present was IM Properties, who shared plans for a new campus made up of manufacturing, logistics and high-growth companies next to junction 9 of the M42 in Curdworth.
Sarah gave an insight into the workings of HORIBA’s recently-opened Hydrogen Hub - a 240m2 hydrogen fuel cell and electrolysis automotive test facility – whilst also addressing any impact that the delay on banning the sale of new petrol and diesel cars could have.
She said: “It is a case of when, not if, we make the transition to electric vehicles, and so I do not expect to see research and development into electric and autonomous vehicles slowing down because of the delay.
“Could this latest delay have an impact on where other firms invest? Possibly, which is why the industry needs to be given long-term financial incentives for other overseas businesses in this space to commit to the UK.”
The meeting also marked Tom Mongan’s last as Chair of the North Warwickshire Branch after five years at the helm.
Tom added: “This meeting was a fantastic way to bow out as the conversations typified why these meetings are so important as an outlet to lobby government.
“Businesses from the region were able to share their views with Marcus Jones MP on not only the short-term barriers to growth, but ones that will impact future generations too.
“IM Properties also highlighted that while a lot has also been made about there being skills shortages, employment land is also in short supply too, which poses a barrier to growth unless greater collaborative working is implemented.
“I’d like to thank the Chamber and all of its members for their contribution to these meetings while I have been Chair, and especially to Marcus Jones MP, who has consistently attended these meetings to take on board business views.”
Marcus Jones MP also delivered his Westminster update, particularly regarding the ongoing support for the national economy.
He said: “Inflation is now starting to come down quickly which is good news, particularly as the Government’s economic policy is closely aligned to the Bank of England’s activity in order to get both inflation and interest rates under long-term control.
“However, I am aware that there are other challenges businesses are facing – particularly regarding high energy and fuel prices – which I am raising with Ministers.”
