Isle of Wight retailer, Leslies Motors, is planning to open a new showroom on the outskirts of Newport. Leslies has applied for planning permission to redevelop a yard at Blackwater, formerly used by a plant hire business.

The franchise has yet to be announced, but it is understood it will either be Toyota or Hyundai. The development will house new and used car space and also include a workshop with MOT facilities.

Leslies Motors manager, Louis Vanassche said: “The new site will allow for the expansion of the current Sandown showroom. It will be renovated to bring it up to current franchise standards to make for a great customer experience.

“These two investments on the Isle of Wight will be supporting employment with full time roles being created at both sites”.