4.2 Safeguarding our Economic Assets

aptation measures. 4.2 Safeguarding our Economic Assets Policies within this section contribute to achieving the following Strategic Objectives: SO3. Developing opportunities for jobs and growing the economy SO7. Protecting and enhancing our heritage and cultural assets SO8. Improving the quality of life of our communities 4.2.1 In addition to the Major Investment Sites listed in Policy DS.10, other important economic assets in South Warwickshire include: • Silicon Spa ~ It is the home of the gaming industry. This extends from Leamington out to the surrounding areas of Southam and Warwick employing over 2,000 highly skilled people. • Automotive ~ Home to the UK's automotive industry. Coventry and Warwickshire have a reputation for being a world class centre for advanced manufacturing and engineering. Aston Martin, JLR and Lotus have a major presence in South Warwickshire. Manufacturing accounts for over 40% GVA in Stratford. • Food and Drink ~ Food and drink is important to the economy and Warwickshire is well known for its quality restaurants, locally produced artisan food and drink, farm shops delicatessens and café culture. • Highly Skilled Workforce ~ South Warwickshire has a well-qualified and skilled workforce which attracts businesses. Warwick and Stratford have a higher-than- average population with NVQ4 qualifications and above. • Bowls England ~ The HQ of Bowls England is in Leamington, and each year hosts the National Bowls Championships. • Shakespeare's Birthplace ~ A popular attraction for overseas and UK visitors and is situated in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon. • Castles and Country Estates ~ South Warwickshire is home to a number of significant country estates as well as Warwick and Kenilworth castles, both of which are major tourist attractions. • Royal Shakespeare Company ~ It is a major British theatre company employing over 1,000 staff and producing around 20 theatrical productions each year. • Cotswolds National Landscape ~This is the third largest protected landscape in England which is popular with walkers and visitors to the area. • Agriculture ~ Warwickshire is home to a diverse range of farming, food and drink businesses and is approximately 70% agricultural land. Agriculture is important as it contributes to the local economy, local communities, protects the local environment and is a large employer to local people. 4.2.2 It is critical that South Warwickshire safeguards its existing employment uses in order to support economic growth, and the Policy below sets out how existing empl