LANCASHIRE-based Bowker Motor Group has confirmed plans to open its first non-franchise dealership in Osbaldeston on the A59 on a site formerly occupied by Bay Horse Saab.

The family-owned business is investing over £750,000 in the new dealership, to be called 'Bowker Ribble Valley'. It will open in September 2012 creating 10 new jobs.

The garage will offer servicing to all makes and models of cars, including MOT and tyre bays, while the car sales part of the business will specialise in sports cars.

Bowker Motor Group chief executive Paul Bowker  is no stranger to the garage trade as his firm currently operates eight franchise dealerships for brands including BMW and Harley Davidson motorcycles. The latest venture represents the group's first foray into the independent trade however. Speaking about the move, he said, "In recent years our BMW and MINI dealerships have enjoyed an increase in service customers who drive other makes of cars. When the site in Osbaldeston became available it presented the perfect opportunity to extend our dealership experience across to all makes and models of cars."