Coventry News
News
Coventry City Council declares a climate emergency after the city experiences its hottest June temperatures on record, triggering emergency cooling measures in public spaces. Meanwhile, construction begins on the £50m Coventry Railway Station upgrade, set to reduce journey times to London by 15 minutes when completed in 2027.
Business News
Jaguar Land Rover's Coventry headquarters announces a £300m investment in autonomous vehicle technology, creating 400 high-skilled jobs. The Friargate development reaches 85% occupancy, while local electric vehicle charging startup Zeti secures £20m in funding to expand globally.
Economic News
Coventry's economy grew by 4.1% in Q1 2025 - the fastest rate in the West Midlands - driven by advanced manufacturing and green technology. The city centre vacancy rate has fallen to 14%, though concerns remain about the future of the Lower Precinct shopping area. Unemployment stands at 3.2%, matching the national average.
Political News
Labour-led Coventry Council faces backlash over plans to introduce a Clean Air Zone covering the city centre from January 2026. The controversial Binley Mega Chippy redevelopment proposal goes to public consultation amid heritage concerns.
Election News
Coventry's constituencies (North East, North West, South) remain key Labour-Conservative battlegrounds, with recent polls showing Labour maintaining strong leads. Local debates focus on University Hospital Coventry's waiting times and the future of Coventry Airport.
Employment News
The new National Battery Innovation Centre at the University of Warwick creates 250 research positions. Amazon's Coventry fulfilment centre announces 500 seasonal jobs, while manufacturing firms report difficulties finding skilled welders and engineers.
Business News
Shares in Coventry-based National Express rise 7% after winning new European contracts. Rolls-Royce, with significant operations in the city, sees shares dip 2% amid global aerospace sector volatility.
Forecast
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Wednesday (18 June): Sunny, 28°C (Heat Health Alert in place)
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Thursday: Thunderstorms, 24°C
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Friday: Showers, 22°C
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Saturday: Cloudy, 21°C
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Sunday: Light rain, 20°C
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Monday: Sunny intervals, 23°C
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Tuesday: Warm sunshine, 25°C
Entertainment News
The Coventry Building Society Arena prepares to host Ed Sheeran in a sold-out July concert. The Belgrade Theatre announces its autumn season, including a new play about Coventry's blitz experience.
Upcoming Events in Coventry
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Coventry Caribbean Festival (21-23 June) - War Memorial Park
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Godiva Festival (5-7 July) - UK's biggest free music festival
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Coventry Food and Drink Festival (28-30 June) - Cathedral Lanes
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Coventry Motofest (29 June) - City centre racing
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Warwick Castle Jousting Tournament (22-23 June)
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Outdoor Cinema: Barbie (26 June, Coombe Abbey)
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Coventry Jazz Festival (29 June - 2 July) - Various venues
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Coventry Blitz Experience (1 July) - Herbert Art Gallery
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Coventry City FC Open Training Day (27 June)
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Midland Air Festival (6-7 July) - Coventry Airport
Key Features:
���� Motoring Hub: Tracking Coventry's automotive transformation
���� Education Focus: University of Warwick's growing influence
����️ City Revival: Friargate and city centre developments
���� Culture Capital: Building on 2021 City of Culture legacy
For breaking updates follow Coventry Live on social media.
Health Alert: Extreme heat warnings in place - cooling stations open at Central Library and Cathedral.
Editor's Note: This edition highlights:
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Coventry's green technology leadership
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The city's ongoing regeneration
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Summer of major events
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Political tensions over transport policies
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