A BMW motorbike dealer is to fill the empty Big Cars showroom as part of an expansion plan, which will see the company double its retail space.

Cannon BMW is preparing to move into the Witham showroom after 12 successful years based at the Power Station in Braintree.

The move will enable Cannon BMW, part of BMW Motorrad, to offer a range of fully electric Zero Motorcycles, as well as a new café designed and run by bikers.

The new premises will also be the first of its kind to offer a ride-in service reception.

Owner Sue Cannon said: “We had outgrown our current premises and were keen to offer existing and new clients a far wider brand experience.

“We will be sad to leave the Power Station, which was originally built in 1917 to supply electricity for the surrounding industrial site and still features the original chimney.

“It is in a great location and has a striking, eye-catching appearance but it simply isn’t large enough to house our future ambitions.

“By contrast, the Witham premises will make us the largest BMW Motorrad retailer in the South.”

Cannon BMW, which won BMW Motorrad retailer of the year 2017, is set to move at the end of August and will be relocating its existing staff members.

The retailer is now recruiting for Café Torque, ahead of its move to the 14,000 sq ft site.

Mrs Cannon added: “This expansion is particularly exciting as it will also see us become the first dealership to showcase Zero Motorcycle, which will be supported by our unique ride-in service reception.

“Add to that our new Café Torque and motorcyclists can expect more than our usual excellent customer service following our move.”