2:05 pm, September 2, 2016
JCT600 has won planning permission to redevelop its Mercedes-Benz dealership in Pannal, just outside Harrogate in North Yorkshire.
The proposal will see the site increased in size with a full refurbishment of the existing building.
The final approved design was agreed after a number of months spent working with council planners to find an acceptable landscaping solution for the site which is close to a listed viaduct.
The company, which acquired the dealership on Leeds Road in April 2015, plans to invest more than £1.7m to transform the existing outdated building and valeting bay into a modern, customer-centric showroom, incorporating the very latest Mercedes-Benz branding and digital integration.
It will feature low-cost and sustainable energy initiatives including a ‘smart’ wireless energy management system and LED lighting, in line with the company’s sustainability policy.
JCT600 has acquired a one-acre site adjacent to the dealership enabling it to enlarge the facility which will include an eight-car showroom for new vehicles with a dedicated handover lounge, plus capacity for 65 pre-owned vehicles externally. It will feature a full range of customer facilities such as an internet café, dedicated aftersales lounge and a specially-designed kids’ zone.
Mark Taylor, property director of JCT600, said: ‘Mercedes-Benz enjoys one of the most prominent locations for motor retail in Harrogate.
‘We did seriously consider relocating the business, but concluded that with the right vision and investment, it could be transformed to create a prestigious facility which would meet the growth aspirations of JCT600 and Mercedes-Benz. This development will not only improve the appearance of the site for years to come, but also protect the jobs of the 44-strong team who work there.
‘We’re also proud that the refurbished facility will be as environmentally-friendly as possible.’
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