MANHEIM Auctions has been given the green light from local authorities to develop its Colchester site into one of the biggest auction centres in Europe, following an upsurge in fleet sales in the past year.

The site is to grow by 12.5 acres to more than 50 acres, which means an increase in capacity by 1,600 vehicles. Manheim will also establish a dedicated commercial vehicle sales facility at the centre.

Its Washington site in the north east will also be enlarged by four acres to 26 acres, after strong fleet sales following the takeover of Tyne Tees Motor Auctions customer base in 2002, according to Manheim.

John Bailey, Manheim Auction's chief executive, said: 'We saw strong fleet sales growth during 2002, which has meant expanding both the Colchester and Washington sites. With growth set to continue in 2003 we are awaiting planning permission at several other sites to cater for further expansion.'