Proposals for a new Volvo and Polestar dealership to be developed near the M1 motorway in North London have received the backing of Hertsmere Borough Council.

Developers will convert and extend an existing empty warehouse on the Centennial Park in Elstree into a showroom, workshop and forecourt, with total space for 154 cars.

Planners were told the business will have the scope to create up to 80 full-time jobs.

After planners raised concerns about large transporters potentially blocking a key access road to Centennial Park they agreed to limit delivery trucks to 7.5 tonnes, with the applicant agreeing to use another location to transfer vehicles between lorries.

And the application was amended to add four electric vehicle charging bays for staff, in addition to the customer electric vehicle charging bays.

One rapid charger near the entrance to the site will be accessible by EV drivers outside opening hours.

Endeavour Automotive Group has operated Watford Volvo nearby since it acquired Regent Automotive in 2014.

In 2020 Endeavour was the first UK motor retailer to open a Polestar Space showroom at the Westfield London shopping centre.

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Spotlight on the customer

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What consumers really want - trends and habits dealers must understand to provide the right buying experience

Barriers to EV purchase - many private motorists need extra help before they take the plunge

Delighting used car buyers - it's essential for retailers to offer tailored experiences and great value

Aftersales customer care - valuable interactions are vital as dealerships face fishing in a diminishing pool

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