Work has started on phase two of a £1.4m development of Patterson Motor Group’s Shiremoor dealership.

The investment is part of a plan by the motor retailer to re-vamp its three dealerships across the region in line with Ford’s brand new retail look and style.

The main structure of the new-look dealership, due to be finished this year, is now in place and phase two of the development will see further work to the interior of the building and major improvements to car-parking facilities for customers.

The site will also include a cafe, while plasma screens will be placed in the service area.

The Shiremoor dealership has an annual turnover of £22m and sells around 1,800 new and used cars per year.