A PURPOSE-built Volvo showroom has opened in Poole.

Volvo Cars Poole has a 5,500sqft premises on Sterte Avenue West following a £200,000 investment by parent company Ocean Automotive

It has a showroom for six new Volvos including the XC60, V40 Cross Country and XC70, as well as customer parking and an area at the back to display more than 25 approved used Volvos.

Ocean Automotive already has four companies, including local businesses Poole au di and Poole Accident Repair.

Ocean Automotive managing director David Kelly said: “We are excited to have brought this level of facility to existing and prospective Volvo owners in Dorset at a time when Volvo sales are expanding in the UK.

“The first week of trading went exceptionally well, selling our fist Volvo on opening day.

“May 2015 sees the launch of the new, and much anticipated XC90 – a seven-seater SUV that is a leader in its sector. In line with this we have created an exceptional resource to reflect the Swedish flair of all the cars in the range and the expectations of today’s Volvo owners – who are focused on quality, design, environment, safety and adventure.

“Volvo products have evolved to a point now that matches the German premium marques and it provides a real alternative, an alternative with Swedish influence throughout its designs.

“It is imperative that we convey to all existing and prospective Volvo owners, that Volvo in Dorset is under new management, the ethos of the company which is one of quality service and, as importantly, value for money. Plus Volvo Cars Poole’s pricing structure will ensure that owners will not ever feel they need to use a non-Volvo alternative for after sales service.”

David Kelly and Volvo Cars Poole’s co-director, Steve Russell, have both had extensive experience with Volvo throughout their careers. General manager Nigel Hayes has been in the automotive sector for more than 20 years.

The development of the business began through talks with Volvo UK just 12 months ago. Local companies have been employed throughout the process.

The company has created 12 new jobs and expects that figure to reach 20 within the first year. Most personall have a Volvo background, including the youngest Volvo master technician in the country.