'Too optimistic' claim on jobs.

A CLAIM that the rate of manufacturing jobs lost in Coventry is slowing down is being disputed.

The Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber, responding to consultations on the city's development plan up to 2001, says the city council is being ''unjustifiably optimistic."

Peter Howden, chamber president, says manufacturing jobs in the city are down from 70,000 in the early 1980s - about 50 per cent of the workforce - to 34,500, or 28 per cent, now. He predicts the trend will continue unless specific measures are taken.

Mr Howden says: ''For instance, the redevelopment of industrial sites does not result in the same number or type of jobs.

''Sites formerly occupied by Matrix Churchill, Rover and Alvis now provide far fewer jobs.

''The city council says it wants to encourage the growth and modernisation of existing companies, yet our members who try to relocate or expand within the city tell us that the opportunities are very limited for small and medium sized companies.''

The chamber wants the draft development plan amended to allow the council to keep a portfolio of a range of sites and premises to give existing manufacturers the chance to expand, relocate and prosper.

It has also made representations about policies for diversifying the local economy, wants additional sites for hotels, conference and training accommodation, and is calling for extra park-and-ride services from Coventry Airport and Coombe Abbey, and better bus services to new industrial estates.

Pat