The full details of a single luxury car dealership planned to replace three existing sites have been revealed, including the specific location.
Dick Lovett will close its current MINI, BMW and bodyshop sites in Swindon and transfer them to a purpose-built site off junction 16 of the M4.
A planning application has not yet been submitted, but the car seller has opened their initial plans to public consultation online.
The proposed site is on land off Swindon Road (A3102) and lies across the road from the entrance to North Wiltshire Crematorium.
While six acres of it will be on developed land, four acres will be built on green space. It will be separated from the residential areas of Swindon and Wootton Bassett by “acres of farmland” providing a “significant green buffer”.
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The company says sustainability is central to the development, reflecting the car seller’s “commitment to a greener future”.
It says having three separate sites is inconvenient for customers, adding to the town’s traffic whereas the new site will be easily accessed from main routes.
READ MORE: Design and location revealed for new venue in Swindon
It adds: “We also recognise the rural nature of the area surrounding the proposed site, and will ensure that this is reflected in the design of our plans.”
This means planting trees and hedgerows and the use of green roofs (which are covered in vegetation).
The plans state: “Given the relatively small scale proposed for the site, it is unlikely that our plans will have a significant adverse effect on local services. 
“Indeed, the provision of new showrooms will contribute positively to the economy and services in the area.”
The firm says the move will mean £30m of further investment in the local area and that all existing jobs at the closing Swindon branches will be preserved.
Dick Lovett has also promised active engagement with local organisations, communities, and initiatives to ensure the move benefits everyone in the area
In addition, it will install a new traffic light-controlled junction to access the site.
It has also been said that new businesses will be found to occupy our former homes in Swindon, creating more jobs and contributing to the local economy.
The existing showrooms and bodyshop will remain open until the new site is ready, with a promise that all staff will be transferred and no job losses.
Dick Lovett hopes to find new tenants for the three sites, which it says no longer fit its manufacturers’ or business needs.
To view the plans and have your say go to: https://dicklovettjunction16.co.uk/
There will be a drop-in event on Tuesday, November 5, 2024, at Hook Village Hall, Hook, Royal Wootton Bassett, Swindon, SN4 8EA, between 3pm and 7pm to find out more, ask questions, and provide your views.
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