Cleevely Motors will launch a vehicle servicing facility for electric cars at its new unit on the estate, following a deal brokered by Robert Smith of Bruton Knowles

Sir Vince Cable, leader of the Liberal Democrats and former Business Secretary, was given the latest insight into the development of electric cars during a whistle stop tour of Lansdown Industrial Estate in Cheltenham.

Cleevely Motors will launch a vehicle servicing facility for electric cars at its new unit on the estate, following a deal brokered by Robert Smith of Bruton Knowles.

Robert, Head of Commercial Agency at the firm’s Gloucester office, said: “Vince Cable is a high profile supporter of electric vehicle technology. We believe this is the first example in the region and possibly in the county of a dedicated workshop for electric vehicles.

“Cleevely Motors are effectively pre-empting demand by investing in facilities aimed at the next generation in transport.”

Cleevely Motors, a family firm established in 1962, is earmarked to lease 4,000 sq ft at Lansdown Industrial Estate which will complement its existing servicing business operating from Andover Street in the town.

Matt Cleevely, the Managing Director, said “It is a very exciting time for both Cleevely Motors Ltd and our new company Cleevely Electrical Vehicles Ltd.

“Electric and hybrid vehicles are the next stage of the automotive story. We are very grateful to Caisson Investment Management, the appointed Asset Manager of the estate, for understanding and sharing our vision.

“The unit looks as good as new, and we are looking forward to our future here. It was very exciting to have the opportunity to show Sir Vince Cable around, and explain our vision. He was very receptive to our plans due to his interest in the automotive sector.”

Dan Maynard of Caisson Investment Management added: “We are very excited to be welcoming both elements of the Cleevely Motors business to Lansdown Industrial Estate.

“Matt’s family business is very well-established, and has a fantastic reputation, which we believe will deliver Cheltenham’s go-to auto electric centre. His expansion plans marry with our own ambitions for establishing the estate as a strong and diverse centre for business.”

The estate was acquired in June 2017 by Rockspring on behalf of the Cheshire West & Chester Borough Council Pension Fund. London-based Caisson Investment Management are currently co-ordinating a refurbishment programme of vacant units.

Bruton Knowles, BNP Paribas Real Estate, and Kurt Wyman Chartered Surveyors are the appointed letting agents.

For more information, visit the Bruton Knowles website.