Construction work has begun to create new Mazda, Kia and Honda showrooms for Hendy Group in Hampshire.

Part of an innovative partnership with Eastleigh Borough Council, which retains ownership of the site as part of its property portfolio, the new development by the AM100 retail group is expected to generate an additional 90 jobs.

As part of the expansion plans, the company’s existing Leigh Road site will become a dedicated Ford franchise.

The new facility is being built on just over one hectare of land, with a development focus on sustainability and the environment.

Features include solar panels on the roof, water recycling in the valet bay and electric charge points to meet rising demand from motorists switching to hybrid and electric cars.

Hendy’s chief executive Paul Hendy said: “We are delighted to put our Hampshire expansion plans into action with these three brand new dealerships which are due to open before the end of the year,

“We will be opening dedicated showrooms for Mazda, Kia and Honda on the new site with space for 27 new cars in the showroom, 120 used cars and a 20 bay workshop.”