Multi million pound investment plans unveiled

Dealership venture aims to bring 100 jobs

Plans for a major new car showroom development outside Douglas could create 100 new jobs.

Island-based commercial property firm Eden Park Developments has submitted plans for a multi-franchise car retail and service complex on Cooil Road.

If approved, the dealership will be operated by Channel Island motor retail and leasing group Jacksons, supplying both the premium luxury and budget economy vehicle markets.

Marques including Audi, Porsche, Volkswagen, Volvo, Skoda and SsangYong have committed to the venture, to be based in a state-of-the-art facility spread over a 10-acre site.

Developers say if planning permission is granted, 65 jobs would be created immediately in sales, customer service and technical roles, rising to 100 in the near future.  

Eden Park director James Greenhalgh said he's confident the investment would 'reinvigorate' the local car trade, bringing global car franchises to local customers.

DoI Vehicle Licensing records show that for every new car sold on the Island in 2014, 2.2 cars were imported. 

Jacksons’ CEO Paul Collier said “Over ten years ago, the new car market in the Channel Islands was in decline, much like it is in the Isle of Man now, with brands leaving the islands altogether and dealerships closing. Jacksons not only turned that around, but now has a turnover of around £100m annually across the islands.”

He added: “By introducing a number of car brands not currently represented on the Isle of Man, we would look to win back this business, keeping money local to benefit the community, as happened in the Channel Islands."

If planning permission is granted, work will commence in early 2016 with completion due later next year.