This is why the automotive sector is a big driver of growth in the Chichester district

Goodwood Revival, 2019 (Photograph: Derek Martin)

Chichester’s long-running association with the automotive sector is only set to grow in the coming years, according to Invest Chichester.

Already home to established, world-renowned, companies including Rolls-Royce and the Goodwood Estate, the district is also where a number of car dealerships – both national and independent – and specialist workshops for repair and customisation are located.

Employers are supported by the skills provision from the district’s educational institutions, with Chichester College’s motor vehicle and motorcycle courses allowing students the opportunity to specialise before moving into the workplace. The University of Chichester also offers engineering courses.

Land Rovers and Range Rovers are being customised within the district, as they are carefully crafted and transformed into bespoke vehicles by luxury designers and engineers Kingsmen Editions and their sister company, Chichester Cars.

Electric vehicle charging (Photograph: Unsplash)

Across the UK more than 864,000 people are employed by the automotive sector, which generated more than £100billion in 2019, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

Location is likely to be a key decider in where automotive businesses base themselves with an estimated 4,100 cars and 6,100 engines exported worldwide every day – and 1,000 cars distributed to UK dealers and 3,600 engines delivered to UK factories. Chichester, with its close proximity to two major port cities in Portsmouth and Southampton, stands out against other UK locations.

Councillor Tony Dignum, Chichester District Council’s cabinet member for growth, place and regeneration, said: “Some of the UK’s most iconic cars have been – and continue to be - developed, tested and manufactured in Chichester, and we have a legendary race track right on our doorstep – and the opportunity is there for anyone in the sector to become a part of our district’s motoring story.

“Plans are underway to increase availability of space for the sector and our University and College are teaching the next generation of technicians, designers, specialists and experts – not to mention our location to two of the UK’s biggest ports putting you in front of the world.

“We’re open for business and ready to put you in the fast lane.”

Chichester College plays a key role in training tomorrow’s experts and on average trains hundreds of students every year across various automotive trades, including motor vehicle and motorcycle.