Coventry Airport Faces Demolition as Battery Factory Proposal Advances

Plans to demolish structures at Coventry Airport are advancing as a new proposal for a battery manufacturing facility, known as Greenpower Park, is under review by the Warwick District Council. The planning committee is set to evaluate the reserved matters application, which includes the demolition of existing buildings and the construction of a primary road with parking and access provisions.

This development comes in anticipation of the airport’s closure, scheduled for next year. Outline permission for the battery gigafactory was granted in March 2022, and the current application aims to progress this initiative. The site, located in Baginton, on the border between Coventry and Warwick district, has generated significant local debate.

Both Baginton and Bubbenhall Parish Councils have voiced objections, primarily concerned about safety issues. They argue that the site is adjacent to a heavily trafficked national road network, which could pose risks in case of an incident at the gigafactory. They stated, “It is within a highly populated area that is adjacent to a heavily used national road network that would be completely closed down in the event of an incident at the gigafactory, placing thousands of lives in danger.”

Despite these concerns, Coventry City Council has not raised objections to the proposal, although discrepancies in the noise report were noted. Ward Councillor Josh Payne expressed a tendency to support the application, acknowledging community concerns while also highlighting the potential economic benefits of the project. Conversely, Councillor Pam Radford has lodged an objection based on issues related to noise, traffic, and safety, urging further investigation prior to granting approval.

A total of 24 public objections have been submitted. Nevertheless, a report prepared for the planning committee has recommended approval, stating that the proposed works align with the parameters established during the outline permission stage. The report also asserted that the details regarding earthworks, drainage, substation, and main road construction are acceptable.

Community feedback reflects a range of opinions. One commenter, Bobinder, expressed hope for the project’s approval and suggested the inclusion of a learning center for aspiring engineers from Coventry and Warwickshire, along with essential healthcare facilities. Another commenter, Ronnie Rees, noted the missed opportunity of having the new development at the original terminal, which could have mitigated local opposition.

Others echoed similar sentiments, with comments highlighting a sense of regret over past decisions that led to the airport’s decline. One user remarked, “I bet all the nimby’s in Baginton who objected to the expansion of the airport some years ago are kicking themselves now.”

Some community members remain skeptical about the true nature of the development. Commenter Curly1987 suggested that the gigafactory concept might be a strategy by developers to secure planning permission for warehouses rather than a genuine battery manufacturing facility.

As discussions unfold, the planning committee will make a decision on the proposals this week, weighing the potential economic advantages against the community’s safety concerns. The implications of this decision could profoundly affect the future of the site and its surrounding area.