A business dinner to forge closer relations between local government and key automotive companies in Coventry and Warwickshire was held at the Coventry Transport Museum last night.

The dinner was hosted by Coventry City Council and Warwickshire County Council, and attended by representatives from Jaguar Land Rover, Aston Martin, Citroen UK and Tata.

The event, sponsored by leading construction company Wilmott Dixon, gave automotive companies the opportunity to discuss their aspirations, expansion plans and concerns with both councils and encouraged potential joint working and understanding in relation to property developments, supply chain opportunities and wider issues.

Cllr John Mutton, Leader of Coventry City Council said: “We are delighted to have brought together top decision makers from key automotive companies who are keen to develop their businesses within the region.  Business growth and job creation remain as one of our top priorities and it is extremely positive to hear about the level of confidence these businesses have about our great city and county.”

Cllr Alan Farnell, Leader of Warwickshire County Council added: “The event was extremely successful. It provided a fantastic opportunity to build relationships and have dialogue with key decision makers and businesses from across Coventry and Warwickshire. We are confident that the event has strengthened our understanding of the concerns that the automotive industry face and will enable us to work collaboratively to further stimulate growth and create jobs in the area.”

Following the success of the inaugural Automotive Business Dinner earlier this year, Coventry City Council and Warwickshire County Council has continued to collaborate to ensure that business relationships in the local automotive industry continue to thrive.