A TEAM of construction vehicles has moved on to the site of Britain's largest motor park.

The 11.7-acre site, off Langford Lane, Kidlington, will eventually house eight car dealerships and two body shops, with buildings ranging from 10,000 to 18,000 sq ft.

Motorworld is the first to start construction work, on a Volkswagen dealership, which is due to be finished in April.

The company's 1.3-acre plot will house a ten-car showroom, space for 50 used cars, customer parking, workshops and offices.

When work is finished, staff will move from the existing dealership in Oxford Road, Kidlington, which will become an Audi dealership.

Motorworld group general manager Alf Middleton said the company was entering an exciting phase.

He said: "Motorworld represents Audi and VW throughout most of Oxfordshire and these changes are essential to take Motorworld forward.

"Oxford is a challenging area for motor retailing due to the shortage of available sites. Our plans will secure two high-profile showrooms sites, incorporating the very latest ideas in design and technology for the benefit of both customers and staff."

Another firm which has confirmed it plans to move to the park is the Sytner Group, which is taking a two-acre plot to house its Toyota and Mazda dealer- ships.

The existing Blenheim Toyota dealership in Banbury Road, Summertown, Oxford, will be sold, possibly for use as a restaurant. The luxury Lexus dealership on the site will move to Cumnor Hill, where the group will refurbish and improve much of its operation.

At Cumnor Hill, where Mazda is based, there will be a larger Jaguar dealership, including a large showroom, workshop space and more parking. Work is due to be finished early next year.

Story date: Tuesday 09 November

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