Could Coventry become the UK's Silicon Valley?

[dutchman]

Local Conservatives believe Coventry could follow in the footsteps of the Californian success story - with the right vision and political will



In the wake of Jaguar Land Rover revealing ambitious expansion plans and its hopes that Coventry could become a ‘smart city’ to develop the autonomous and connected vehicles of tomorrow could it also become the UK’s Silicon Valley?

Conservative councillors in Coventry certainly think so and believe the city can become a world class hub for IT start-up and technology companies.

They want Coventry to emulate Silicon Valley in California, or Box Park in London, making it the UK’s number one destination for IT start-ups and technology companies.

It won’t be easy though and would involve a concerted push from the city council, the government and a whole host of other partners.

Now the local Conservatives are aiming to get the ball rolling with a motion at a council meeting on December 6.

Councillor Gary Ridley (Woodlands), who sits on the council’s digital strategy task and finish group, believes it could result in Coventry becoming a haven for technology companies.

He said; “Coventry is ideally placed to take advantage of a technology revolution that works for everyone.

“We’ve got two universities and several specialised IT firms here already.

“We can offer affordable living to budding entrepreneurs and we’re well connected being right at the heart of the country.”

Acknowledging just how much hard work needed to be done, Coun Blundell added: “There’s clearly a lot of work to be done but this motion will set out a vision for our city and confirm our commitment to succeed.

“It’ll be a massive challenge too, requiring the council, government and other partners to come together – but I know it’s achievable.”

So, what is it that Coventry has that means the Silicon Valley dream could be delivered?

The Conservatives cite factors such as a lower cost of living and low property values in the city.

They have also pointed to a recent survey which revealed 40 per cent of London-based start-ups had left the Capital due to the high cost of living.

The councillors also believe Coventry is well placed to cash-in on Chancellor Philip Hammond’s promise of £1bn to improve digital infrastructure across the country.

Leader of the Coventry Conservatives, Coun John Blundell is fully behind Coun Ridley.

He added: “With the right vision and political will we can make Coventry the number one destination for IT start ups and tech firms from right across the UK.”

[rebbonk]

Too late. We should be looking at the next wave to ride.