Coventry in the 60s

Coventry was among the first of Britain's cities to be redeveloped in the post-war years. Coventry suffered heavily in the War, even its historic Cathedral was all but destroyed on the fateful night of 14 November 1940. In the 50s and 60s the City rose like a phoenix from the ashes and was totally transformed.

The new Upper and Lower Precincts in Coventry were built in the 50s. There was also an indoor market built to a modern, circular design. Much of 50s Coventry has now been redeveloped. However, some of the murals have been preserved, together with a circular burger bar in the Lower Precinct. People may also remember the department store, Owen Owen (subsequently Allders and now Primark).

Coventry Cathedral was rebuilt to a design by Sir Basil Spence. It was consecrated in 1962 in the presence of Her Majesty The Queen.

Coventry did well in the boom years of the fifties and sixties. Its car factories, Jaguar, Standard-Triumph and the Rootes Group, employed thousands. People also worked for engineering firms such as Wickman and Alfred Herbert, as well as the electrical giant, GEC. One journalist claimed that the streets of Coventry were paved with gold.

Coventry's employment prospects attracted immigrants from India and Pakistan, as well as from Ireland. In the sixties, Coventry had a large Irish community.

Coventry's dependence on the automotive industry had been its saviour in the 50s and 60s. The downturn of car industry in the late 70s and early 80s put the City's fortunes in decline. Local band, The Specials, marked the lowest point with their number one hit "Ghost Town" in 1981.

Your comments on Coventry

"Coventry looks great, Ive never been (apart from being sent there !), but so want to visit " Gill Goulding