Rainier revs up resi plans for Daimler site

Rainier Real Estate has filed plans for a 250-home scheme on the site of a former car factory in Coventry. The proposals would regenerate the seven-acre former Daimler site on Sandy Lane, known as Sandy Lane Business Park and Sandy Lane Industrial Estate. Existing commercial premises would be demolished, except for Daimler Powerhouse, which is home to Imagineer Productions’ creative hub. The new homes would be a mix of affordable and market-sale properties of between five and two storeys. Richard Mees, chief executive at Rainier, said: “Our plans seek to demonstrate that the site is just as significant for the city of Coventry today as it was nearly 100 years ago for its automotive production – as it has great potential to enhance the local economy through additional spending power from new residents, while delivering value for the community with new facilities and investment in additional infrastructure. “Not only does the site provide much-needed new homes that will be designed in a way that is in keeping with the site’s existing heritage and surrounding environment, it will also help to reduce both traffic and noise levels generated from existing commercial activity at the site. “We have conducted extensive consultation with the local community on our proposals – including businesses such as Imagineer Productions – who have responded positively, particularly regarding the public plaza, which will provide a unique space for the community to come together to celebrate the city’s cultural talent. “This is one of Coventry’s most exciting regeneration opportunities that has so much potential to enrich the lives of residents, have a positive environmental impact, while creating jobs to help build on the legacy of this important site.”