AM100 dealer group Caffyns is closing its site in East Grinstead, Surrey, where it has traded for 70 years.

The Vauxhall dealership ceases trading on October 27. Staff were notified of the closure at the end of September, and have been offered alternative positions elsewhere within the group, according to the company.

Caffyns says the closure is with “great regret”.

The art deco building, with a round tower, was built for Caffyns as a car showroom 70 years ago. However, its location has been earmarked for development by the local council.

The disposal of another Caffyns site, in Hove, Sussex, for redevelopment has fallen through because of planning regulations. The company had agreed a sale with Berkeley Homes, conditional on obtaining planning permission.

However, its appeal against planning refusal by the local authority failed this month, breaking the contract.