OXFORD motor group Motorworld will be the first tenant on a brand new 'auto village' in Kidlington.

The ten-acre site - called Oxford Motor Park - will have room for eight franchises in total.

Motorworld will shortly start the construction of a new Volkswagen showroom and service centre as the first occupier at the Langford Lane site opposite the Oxford Spires business park.

Motorworld group general manager, Alf Middleton, said: "Space is limited at our current site in Kidlington.

"The new 1.3-acre plot will allow a ten-car showroom, space for 50 used cars and plenty of customer parking.

"As a new-build project it will reflect VW's latest retail design concept and be a purpose-designed facility of the highest standard."

By moving VW to its new location, Motorworld will have the opportunity to establish a dedicated dealership for Audi at the present Oxford Road site in the centre of Kidlington.

As a key strategic move, both manufacturers are keen to separate the two marques.

Motorworld Audi will effectively double the available space and, once the VW area is vacated, a major refurbishment is planned.

Mr Middleton added: "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."

Story date: Tuesday 06 April

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