Work is underway on huge battery-making gigafactory at former Coventry Airport site

Public-private joint venture partners Coventry City Council and Rigby Group are creating a new development for manufacturing, battery technology and clean energy at the 308-acre site.

Planning permission has been secured for up to 5.7m sq ft of industrial development, with the aim of creating thousands of new jobs. The partners believe the plans could inject £2.5bn into the local economy.

Enabling works, designed to connect the site to a dedicated power supply from National Grid, are now underway. Matrix Networks and Ashwell Construction are installing a new primary sub-station, thanks to £23m from Mayor Richard Parker and the West Midlands Combined Authority's regional flagship Investment Zone programme.

Archaeology and environmental experts have also been appointed to satisfy statutory planning conditions. Archaeological investigations are expected to conclude in November this year. Environmental consultants will then survey the site in advance of any ground work activities.

Contracts are also in place for the demolition of redundant airport buildings, with works expected to conclude by the end of 2027.

Mike Murray, project director at GreenPower Park, said: “Following the closure of the airport in June we are now moving at pace to get the site ready for occupation.

“Planning permissions are secured and we are poised to plug in to the National Grid. This will allow us to potentially deliver a new manufacturing facility within 18 months of an occupier signing. In addition, we have put together a package of financial incentives – with support from WMCA and government – to help attract investors and ensure it’s a smooth and simple process from first meeting to occupation.”

Cllr Lynnette Kelly, deputy leader and cabinet member for jobs, regeneration and climate change at Coventry City Council, added: “There is no doubt that the future is battery driven so to see work start on site is really encouraging. We are the only location in the UK that is ready to go right now, with planning permission in place, a package of investor support and the all important grid connection.

“The UK needs to compete on a world stage or risk being left behind – and this site enables us to do just that. Of course Coventry, the wider region and the UK as a whole, needs good quality jobs – jobs that will build on our rich manufacturing heritage as we lead the green industrial revolution. And really that’s what this site is all about.”

Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, said: “Getting spades in the ground at GreenPower Park is a significant milestone in our plan to put this region at the cutting edge of global battery manufacturing and innovation. It also moves us a step closer to thousands more good quality jobs in one of our fastest-growing sectors. Using our Investment Zone funding to prepare this site is what’s driving strong interest from international investors who share our ambition and want to do business here.”