The manufacturers of London’s famous black cabs are to redevelop their existing Coventry plant to fund a relocation elsewhere in the city.
The proposals by London Taxis International (LTI), a wholly owned subsidiary of Manganese Bronze, depend on them gaining planning permission for a 11,148 sq m (120,000 sq ft) retail scheme at the manufacturing site which borders the Alvis Retail Park, one mile west of the city centre.
An outline application has been submitted to the city council for 10,219 sq m (110,000 sq ft) of retail space and 929 sq m (10,000 sq ft) of restaurant or fast food use.
A company spokesman said LTI had not decided whether to sell the site, subject to planning, or redevelop itself. The firm had also not decided on a new location for the expanded manufacturing premises, although it had shortlisted four sites in Coventry. A decision is expected by the end of the month with work due to start this year.
The redevelopment has been prompted by an increase in demand for the new TX 1 taxi and the resulting rise in production levels.
Detailed traffic studies and the retailing impact of the proposals on the 4.5ha (11 acre) site have been included in the planning application.
Architects Seymour Harris and planning consultants DTZ Pieda have acted for LTI in making the planning application, with DTZ in Birmingham and D&P Holt in Coventry offered property advice.
EGi News 08/06/98
