2,500 jobs to be created by £300m expansion of the MIRA site

The announcement of a £300 million expansion of the MIRA (Motor Industry Research Association) site off the A5, nestled between Hinckley and Nuneaton, heralds a new era of progress and prosperity for the region. This ambitious endeavor, poised to create approximately 2,500 advanced manufacturing and high-quality jobs in the automotive research and manufacturing sectors, has received the green light, marking a significant milestone in the journey towards economic revitalization and infrastructure development.

At the heart of this expansion lies the establishment of a state-of-the-art manufacturing and research park within the expansive MIRA site. This strategic location not only capitalizes on the region’s rich automotive heritage but also leverages its proximity to key transportation arteries, facilitating seamless connectivity and accessibility for both employees and stakeholders.

Central to the project’s success is a series of infrastructure enhancements aimed at optimizing traffic flow and enhancing connectivity within the area. These include the diversion of Weddington Lane (the A444) through the site to connect with the existing “MIRA” roundabout on the A5, the replacement of the current “Red Gate” roundabout with a conventional design, and the dualling of the A5 between the new Red Gate roundabout and the existing MIRA roundabout, among other improvements.

Councillor Mark Simpson, the chair of the planning board at North Warwickshire Borough Council, emphasized the multifaceted benefits of the expansion, stating, “The council wholeheartedly welcomes this significant boost to the number of advanced manufacturing jobs in the borough and to supporting the future of the national center of technology that MIRA has become.” He further highlighted the positive impact on the wider community, noting that the proposals would provide highway improvements benefiting residents in Caldecote and environmental benefits for the broader area.

Beyond the creation of new jobs and infrastructure enhancements, the MIRA expansion embodies a broader commitment to innovation, sustainability, and inclusive growth. By fostering a conducive ecosystem for collaboration and research, the new manufacturing and research park is poised to catalyze breakthroughs in automotive technology, driving the sector forward and solidifying the region’s reputation as a global hub for automotive excellence.

Moreover, the expansion of MIRA signifies a proactive approach towards addressing the evolving needs of the automotive industry, particularly in light of the ongoing transition towards electrification, autonomous driving, and sustainable mobility solutions. By investing in research and development, the region demonstrates its readiness to embrace change and lead the charge towards a more sustainable and technologically advanced future.

As construction commences and the vision gradually unfolds, the MIRA expansion promises to be a transformative force, shaping the economic landscape and fostering innovation for generations to come. With its blend of job creation, infrastructure development, and commitment to technological advancement, this ambitious project sets a precedent for future growth and prosperity in the region and beyond.