Bowker Motor Group is preparing to submit plans for a 43,000sq-ft Porsche franchise after the German brand appointed it to operate a new Lancashire centre.

The family-owned motor group wants to create the new facility on the junction of Watery Lane and Strand Road, Preston, and designs for the new building, which will include a 35-car showroom and a 13-bay workshop, will be submitted to planners this month.

Over 30 jobs will be created by what will become Porsche’s 38th centre in the UK and the eleventh site within a Bowker Motor Group portfolio which includes BMW, BMW Motorrad, Maserati, Mini and Harley-Davidson.

Paul Bowker, Bowker Motor Group chief executive, said: “I’m delighted that Bowker has been chosen by Porsche GB to represent them here in Lancashire.

“The brand needs no introduction to drivers. It’s synonymous with engineering excellence and the production of some of the most exciting cars on the planet.

“At Bowker, we have already established award-winning motor retail experiences with some of the world’s most prestigious motoring brands and now we’re looking forward to building another exciting new dealership worthy of the Lancashire motoring community.

“I also believe that there are reasons for everyone, not just drivers, to be delighted that Porsche Cars GB Limited has chosen Preston as its Lancashire base.

“Porsche is a global brand and the decision to build the new centre is a huge endorsement of the city’s commercial reputation and future ambitions.”

Peter Mahon, general manager, operations, Porsche Cars GB Limited, said: “We are delighted to be working with the Bowker Motor Group on the new Centre in Preston. We select our partners carefully. We choose businesses with a strong presence in the community and with a reputation for excellent customer care. Bowker Motor Group is a perfect example.

“We are looking forward to working together and establishing an exciting new local Porsche brand presence for Lancashire.”